Business Details
Therapeutic Horseback Riding for Special Needs in Merrillville
Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited has dedicated over a decade to transforming lives through equine-assisted therapy. Founded on the belief that horses uniquely connect with individuals, we specialize in providing therapeutic riding programs for children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and other challenges. Our mission focuses on fostering self-confidence, joy, and physical development through structured horseback riding instruction.With a team of experienced volunteers and certified instructors, we maintain a safe, inclusive environment where each riders progress is celebrated. Our programs longevity and community partnerships underscore our commitment to accessibility and excellence in therapeutic services. We adhere to strict safety protocols and collaborate with medical professionals to ensure tailored care for every participant.
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Volunteer Training
Horse Sponsorship
Educational Programs
Highlights and features
- We specialize in equine therapy for autism, cerebral palsy, and ADHD with 10+ years of experience.
- Our certified instructors and 20+ volunteers ensure personalized attention for every rider.
- Structured programs improve physical coordination, communication, and self-confidence.
- Tax-deductible donations directly fund horse care and rider scholarships.
- Collaboration with medical professionals ensures safe, effective therapeutic practices.
What people say
Excellent with students
Amazing program
Improved motor skills
Dedicated volunteers
Safe environment
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Structured horseback riding sessions for individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. Our program enhances balance, coordination, and self-esteem through equine interaction. Certified instructors tailor lessons to each rider's abilities, focusing on both physical development and emotional connection with horses.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Specialized therapy sessions using horses to address emotional, social, and behavioral challenges. This approach helps participants develop communication skills and emotional regulation through guided horse care and riding activities. Sessions are supervised by trained professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Volunteer Training
Comprehensive training for volunteers assisting in riding lessons and barn maintenance. Volunteers learn horse handling, rider support techniques, and safety protocols. No prior experience is required, making it accessible for community members to contribute meaningfully.
Horse Sponsorship
Opportunity for donors to support therapy horses' care and training. Funds cover veterinary care, feed, and maintenance for horses like Barney and Red. Sponsors receive updates about their horse's role in transforming riders' lives through therapeutic progress.
Educational Programs
Curriculum focused on teaching horse care and riding fundamentals to special needs participants. Programs emphasize responsibility, patience, and teamwork through hands-on activities. Lessons incorporate academic concepts like animal science and safety practices for holistic learning.
People
Ken Mertens
President
35-year Systems Engineer with nonprofit leadership experience in community theater and education foundations. Joined EEU after retirement to support therapeutic programs for special needs individuals.
Sandi DeVries
Vice President
Longtime volunteer and board member since 2010. Specializes in direct rider support as a side walker and horse leader, witnessing student progress firsthand.
Jeffrey Perz
Treasurer
Board member since 2016 with prior experience in finance and community organizations. Joined after his son benefited from EEU's therapeutic programs.
Lisa Way
Barn Manager
Certified instructor and lifelong horse enthusiast managing daily operations. Oversees horse care and training programs for therapeutic riding sessions.
Amanda Geary
Volunteer Coordinator
Registered neonatal nurse and volunteer since 2018. Coordinates volunteer schedules and supports both riders and horses in therapeutic sessions.
Questions
What conditions do you support?
We serve individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, limb loss, hearing impairments, and other physical or cognitive challenges.
What age groups participate?
Our program accepts riders aged 4 and older with no upper age limit, accommodating special needs across childhood and adulthood.
How can I volunteer?
Volunteers assist as horse leaders, side-walkers, or barn crew. No experience is required—training is provided for all roles.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, all donations to EEU are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
What are session dates?
We offer spring (May-June), summer (July-August), fall (September-October), and winter (November-December) sessions for consistent therapy access.
How do horses help therapy?
Horses provide rhythmic movement that improves balance and coordination while building emotional connections that enhance social skills and confidence.
Reviews (3)
Janet K.
Feb 17, 2021
Report
EEU is a great place for handicapped children to go for supervised and hand guided horse riding lessons. Their barn collapsed under the weight of the the recent heavy snow and they need help to rebuild it. The horses are all okay and being boarded elsewhere. This is a non profit organization that has done so much good for so many. Please consider donating. They will need volunteer labor as well as monetary donations. Their website has information on how to contact them and ways to help.
Mark Price
Jun 07, 2020
Report
This is an amazing group of people with an amazing bunch of animals that provide an amazing service. I look forward to their Souper-Stride fundraiser every October because its such a family friendly event in a very fun setting. Great local charity & community gem.
Diane Sutor
Oct 09, 2019
Report
This is such a wonderful charity. I love helping support it through monetary, time and talent. This charity helps disabled, autistic children and adults gain more independence through horseback riding and interacting with the horses. I volunteered a couple years ago as a side walker. It was a wonderful experience and I saw personally how the young lady started to come out of her shell. I encourage anyone that likes to volunteer to check out this charity. You will love it and get so much more back. You can also help support through monetary donations or attending their annual banquet in May.
