Business Details
38 Years
experience
Therapeutic Horse Riding for All Abilities
Founded in 1988, HOPE Equestrian Center has dedicated over three decades to transforming lives through therapeutic horseback riding. Our mission focuses on serving individuals with physical, emotional, and learning disabilities across southern Oregon, offering tailored programs that foster independence and personal growth. As a NARHA-affiliated organization, we maintain rigorous safety and professionalism standards while providing accessible services to low-income clients through community support.Our team of certified instructors collaborates with medical professionals to create individualized lesson plans, addressing physical rehabilitation, emotional well-being, and social development. With over 50 dedicated volunteers and partnerships with local businesses, we combine equine therapy with compassionate care to deliver measurable improvements in flexibility, confidence, and quality of life for riders ranging from children with Down Syndrome to wounded veterans.
Services
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
At-Risk Teens Program
Wounded Veterans Therapy
Recovery Rehabilitation
Special Needs Riding
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of experience in equine-assisted therapy since 1988
- NARHA-certified instructors with individualized lesson plans
- Serves diverse disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, and spinal injuries
- Community-supported programs for low-income participants
- Combines physical therapy with emotional and social development
Associations and certifications
- North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA)
Services
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Our core program uses horseback riding to improve physical mobility and emotional well-being for individuals with disabilities. The rhythmic motion strengthens muscles while building confidence through animal connection. Certified instructors adapt lessons for conditions ranging from autism to spinal injuries.
At-Risk Teens Program
This specialized program addresses emotional and behavioral challenges through horse care and riding. Teens learn responsibility, communication, and teamwork while receiving unconditional support from horses. Structured activities promote self-esteem and social skills in a non-judgmental environment.
Wounded Veterans Therapy
Designed for physically and mentally wounded veterans, this program combines physical rehabilitation with emotional healing. The 'Horses For Heroes' initiative helps veterans regain strength while finding emotional balance through equine partnerships and structured therapeutic activities.
Recovery Rehabilitation
Targeted riding sessions aid recovery from strokes, paralysis, and neurological conditions. The horse's movement pattern mimics human gait, naturally improving motor skills and muscle control. Sessions complement traditional medical treatments for enhanced rehabilitation outcomes.
Special Needs Riding
Customized programs address developmental disabilities through sensory-rich equine experiences. Riders develop trunk strength, motor skills, and communication abilities while experiencing emotional breakthroughs. Sessions incorporate family and therapist input for comprehensive developmental support.
Questions
What disabilities do you serve?
We work with physical disabilities like cerebral palsy, emotional challenges, developmental delays, and conditions including autism and Down Syndrome.
Are lessons available for all ages?
Yes, our programs accommodate children as young as 5 and adults up to 45+ years old.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Through community donations, we provide subsidized programs for low-income and Medicare-eligible participants.
How are lessons structured?
Lessons combine riding with ground activities, tailored to individual goals from physical therapy to emotional development.
What safety measures are in place?
All instructors are NARHA-certified with safety protocols including helmet requirements and volunteer-assisted riding sessions.
Can I volunteer with the program?
We welcome volunteers to assist with horses, riders, and events - no experience required for most positions.
Reviews (3)
James Goodnature
Jun 11, 2019
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I'm a disabled veteran and the VA offers a horse therapy program thru Hope Equestrian. The staff are very knowledgeable and really nice.The horses are wonderful, well trained fantastic animals. Thank you Tim, Jenna and all the volunteers for what you do.
Crystal Vincent
Jul 15, 2017
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Thank you guys for doing what you do!!!!! It's obvious that you love what you do!!!! I'm so stocked to be a part of this!!!
Holtster
Aug 13, 2016
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This is a great place for anyone with any type of disability and is very therapeutic great staff that work there would recommend to anyone in need.
