Business Details
28 Years
experience
Therapeutic Equestrian Programs for All Abilities
Giant Steps is dedicated to enriching lives through the power of horses, team, and community. Since 1998, we have harnessed the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted programs to help individuals of all ages and abilities overcome physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. As a Premier Accredited Center by PATH Intl., we uphold the highest standards in safety, equine care, and program excellence. Our team of certified instructors and dedicated volunteers provides adaptive riding, unmounted activities, and tailored experiences designed to foster independence, confidence, and social engagement.We serve over 130 clients weekly, offering scholarships and financial assistance to ensure accessibility. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to creating a safe, affirming community where clients, volunteers, and horses thrive together. With a legacy rooted in the vision of founders Robert Pope and Lee Justice, we continue to redefine possibilities for individuals facing diverse challenges.
Services
Adaptive Riding
Unmounted Activities
Tailored Experiences
Therapeutic Riding
Equine-assisted Programs
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of experience in equine-assisted therapy since 1998
- PATH Intl. certified instructors with specialized horsemanship training
- Customized programs for individuals with 60+ distinct disabilities
- Commitment to inclusive community and accessibility through scholarships
- Emergency safety protocols and ADA-compliant facilities
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.)
What people say
Life-changing impact
Compassionate instructors
Safe environment
Visible progress
Welcoming community
Services
Adaptive Riding
Adaptive riding lessons teach horseback riding skills while improving cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being. Our PATH Intl. certified instructors customize sessions to address individual goals like balance, coordination, and confidence. Clients of all abilities experience the transformative power of horse-human connections.
Unmounted Activities
Unmounted horsemanship activities focus on character development and life skills through ground-based interactions. Participants build confidence, communication skills, and emotional awareness while learning horse care and teamwork in a supportive environment.
Tailored Experiences
Customized half-day or full-day equine experiences for community groups and partners. These programs create meaningful connections with horses tailored to specific group needs, fostering teamwork and personal growth through structured activities.
Veteran Programs
Specialized equine-assisted services for veterans address PTSD and physical rehabilitation through structured riding and horsemanship. Our trauma-informed approach helps veterans rebuild confidence, develop coping skills, and connect with a supportive community.
Volunteer Training
Comprehensive volunteer training programs prepare individuals to support therapeutic sessions. No prior horse experience required - we provide safety protocols, emergency procedures, and hands-on instruction to create effective therapy teams.
People
Julie Larson
Program Director
Julie leads program operations with PATH Intl. certification and specialized mental health training. She oversees instructor development, client assessments, and equine program coordination to ensure therapeutic excellence.
Libby Porzig
Executive Director
Libby directs organizational strategy and community partnerships with 15+ years in nonprofit leadership. She manages financial operations and donor relations to sustain program growth and accessibility.
Jen McWherter
Head Instructor
Jen supervises riding instruction with dual PATH Intl. certification in therapeutic riding and mental health. She develops curriculum and trains staff to maintain premier accreditation standards.
Sean Willer
Facility Manager
Sean oversees barn operations and horse care. With 10+ years in equine management, he ensures facility safety, horse training programs, and maintenance of ADA-compliant infrastructure.
Amy Barboro
Certified Instructor
Amy delivers therapeutic lessons with PATH Intl. certification. She specializes in adapting riding techniques for clients with physical disabilities, focusing on measurable progress toward individual goals.
Questions
What equine programs do you offer?
We provide adaptive riding, unmounted activities, and customized equine experiences for individuals with diverse abilities.
How can I volunteer?
Complete our application and attend orientation. No horse experience required - we provide comprehensive training.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations qualify for tax deductions as allowed by law.
Do you accept horse donations?
Yes, we evaluate horses aged 7-18 meeting specific temperament and training criteria for therapeutic work.
What safety measures are in place?
PATH Intl. certified staff, emergency protocols, ADA-compliant facilities, and regular horse/client assessments ensure safety.
How are programs funded?
We rely on donations, grants, fundraising events, and volunteer support to maintain affordable, accessible programs.
Reviews (1)
David Glickman
Mar 16, 2021
Report
Incredible program with dedicated and compassionate leaders and trainers. We are so grateful for Giant Steps.
