Business Details
17 Years
experience
Equine-Assisted Therapy Programs in Virginia
Sprout Center was founded in 2009 with a mission to transform lives through equine-supported activities and therapies. Our organization traces its roots to 1944, when Richard Bacas' resilience in the face of polio inspired a legacy of empowering individuals with disabilities. We specialize in adaptive riding, carriage driving, and equine-supported therapy programs that foster physical development, emotional well-being, and personal growth. Our team of certified instructors and carefully selected equines work in harmony to create personalized programs for individuals aged four and older. We serve over 185 individuals weekly through 4,950 hours of client service and 8,997 volunteer hours annually.Our facility in Aldie, Virginia features accessible infrastructure and a herd of horses specifically chosen for their temperament and movement patterns. We maintain rigorous safety standards with PATH Intl. certification and require physician evaluations for all participants. Our programs extend beyond therapy to include community-building initiatives like wellness programming and inclusion camps. We measure success through the daily victories of our clients, celebrating every step toward independence. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on community support through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer engagement to sustain our mission.
Services
Adaptive Riding
Adaptive Driving
Equine Therapy
Group Programming
Volunteer Opportunities
Internships
Community Events
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- Specialized equine therapy programs since 2009
- Certified instructors with Safe Sport and CPR certifications
- Customized programs for physical and cognitive development
- Carefully selected therapy horses with ideal movement patterns
- Community-focused approach with inclusion programming
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.)
What people say
Life-changing programs
Compassionate instructors
Empowering experiences
Inclusive community
Professional therapy
Services
Adaptive Driving
Adaptive carriage driving offers horsemanship experiences through 2-4 wheeled vehicles. This program develops physical coordination, cognitive skills, and emotional well-being through horse-drawn activities. Ideal for individuals unable to ride due to weight, balance, or medical limitations.
Equine Therapy
Equine-supported therapy combines clinical techniques with horse movement to improve physical function and emotional health. Sessions enhance motor skills, sensory processing, and psychological well-being through structured horse interactions tailored to individual treatment plans.
Adaptive Riding
Personalized riding instruction accommodates diverse physical and cognitive needs. Our programs improve strength, balance, and confidence while teaching horsemanship skills in a supportive environment with specialized equipment and trained instructors.
Group Programming
We offer inclusive group activities including wellness programs, inclusion camps, and educational clubs. These initiatives build social connections and provide peer support through equine-assisted learning experiences for participants of all abilities.
Volunteer Training
Our volunteer program trains community members to assist in therapy sessions, facility maintenance, and special events. Volunteers receive safety training and work directly with clients and horses to support our therapeutic mission.
People
Anna Koopman
Driving Instructor
FEI 3* Combined Driving Competitor with PATH Intl. Level II certification. Specializes in adaptive driving instruction and equine movement analysis. Continuously updates skills through professional development clinics and competitions.
Questions
What equine therapy programs do you offer?
We provide adaptive riding, carriage driving, equine-supported therapy, and group programming for physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
Who can participate in your programs?
Our programs serve individuals aged four and older with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges, following physician evaluation.
How are therapy horses selected?
Horses are chosen based on temperament, movement patterns, and suitability for therapeutic work with diverse client needs.
Do you offer volunteer opportunities?
Yes, we rely on 8,997 annual volunteer hours for program support, facility maintenance, and special events.
How can I support Sprout Center?
Support through donations, sponsorships, event participation, or our 'Shop T-Shirts' fundraising program sustains our mission.
Reviews (2)
Lisa Glasgow
Feb 01, 2017
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The focus at Sprout is clearly service to the disability community. Staff and volunteers are welcoming, accepting, encouraging, and improve the confidence and ability of our kids.
Jeff Powell
Oct 09, 2016
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My son and I have volunteered one day per week with Sprout for two years and we receive so much joy from our time there. Brooke, Nancy, Mike, and the rest of the staff and veteran volunteers welcomed us as part of the Sprout family right from the start. Our time spent with our riders and horses is always lighthearted and uplifting. Sprout is a special oasis of calm in a busy world that allows riders and volunteers to each enjoy the ride.
