Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner in Equine-Assisted Therapy Solutions
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding has been dedicated to improving the physical and emotional well-being of individuals with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy since 1988. As a PATH-certified center, we provide personalized therapeutic riding sessions tailored to each participant's needs, supported by a team of trained volunteers and certified instructors. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our state-of-the-art facilities and our ongoing efforts to expand services to underserved populations, including veterans with disabilities.We prioritize creating a safe, inclusive environment where riders, families, and volunteers collaborate to achieve transformative outcomes. With decades of experience and a focus on community-driven solutions, we remain steadfast in our mission to deliver high-quality, accessible therapeutic programs that empower individuals of all ages.
Services
Equine Assisted Services
Therapeutic Riding
Veterans Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Rider Programs
Community Outreach
Horse Care Training
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We are a PATH-certified nonprofit with 35+ years of specialized experience in therapeutic riding.
- Our team includes certified instructors and trained volunteers dedicated to personalized care.
- We offer tailored programs for veterans and individuals with diverse disabilities.
- Our modern facilities prioritize safety and accessibility for all participants.
- We maintain a community-driven approach with volunteer-led support and family engagement.
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International
Services
Equine Assisted Services
Our equine-assisted services enhance cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being for individuals with disabilities. Certified instructors design personalized sessions to improve balance, coordination, and confidence through horse interaction. Participants engage in structured activities that promote social skills and emotional resilience in a supportive environment.
Veterans Programs
Tailored equine therapy programs address the unique needs of veterans with disabilities. Sessions focus on rebuilding trust, reducing stress, and fostering camaraderie through horse care and riding activities. Our curriculum integrates therapeutic goals with recreational elements to support mental and physical recovery.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a vital role in our programs by assisting riders, maintaining facilities, and supporting fundraising efforts. Training is provided to ensure safe and effective participation in sessions. Volunteers gain meaningful experience while contributing to life-changing therapeutic outcomes for riders and their families.
People
Scott D. Swingle
President
Scott leads SDTR with a commitment to expanding therapeutic access for individuals with disabilities. He emphasizes volunteer engagement and community partnerships to strengthen program impact.
Mary Anne Hoopes
Secretary
Mary Anne oversees administrative operations and ensures organizational efficiency. Her focus on volunteer appreciation and program innovation supports SDTR's mission of inclusive therapy.
Linda Berdine
Development Committee Chair
Linda drives fundraising initiatives and donor relations to sustain SDTR's programs. She champions community outreach efforts to raise awareness of equine-assisted therapy benefits.
Kelly Boyer
Program Committee Chair
Kelly coordinates therapeutic programming and volunteer training. She ensures high-quality service delivery while fostering a supportive environment for participants and staff.
Questions
What services does Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding offer?
We provide equine-assisted therapy programs for children and adults with disabilities, including therapeutic riding sessions, veterans-specific curricula, and volunteer-led support activities.
How can I volunteer with SDTR?
Volunteers assist in sessions, care for horses, and support events. Visit our website to complete an application and attend orientation.
Are donations to SDTR tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
What populations do you serve?
We support individuals with cerebral palsy, autism, PTSD, learning disabilities, and other physical or emotional challenges, including veterans.
How do I enroll a rider?
Contact us via phone or our website to request an application. A physician's release and intake assessment are required for new participants.
