HORSEPOWER THERAPEUTIC RIDING
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Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide therapeutic horseback riding lessons and equine assisted activities for children and adults with disabilities, helping them overcome challenges and develop essential skills. The organization focuses on fostering independence and creating a supportive environment where participants can connect with horses and experience personal growth. Through a variety of programs, HorsePower aims to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with special needs.
About This Cause
Co-founded in March 2012, HorsePower was established to offer creative, inspiring, and transformative therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children and adults with disabilities. In 2013, we proudly achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, enabling us to expand our reach and serve more participants in need of our programs. We believe that physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges should never hinder those with special needs from fulfilling their dreams of connecting with horses. Our mission is to demonstrate the remarkable power of horses to facilitate change within our participants, both inside and out! Our individualized lesson programs encompass a variety of activities, including mounted and unmounted horsemanship, private and semi-private riding instruction, meaningful interactions in our Critter Connections area, field trips, and camps. We also offer tailored support to non-disabled riders and ensure a safe, fun environment with carefully trained horses. Therapeutic horseback riding is a dynamic and enriching recreational activity that empowers individuals with special needs to overcome challenges and acquire new skills. The bond formed through communication and teamwork with the horse fosters physical, emotional, cognitive, sensory, and social growth. Moreover, the unique motivation that horses provide often enables participants to achieve more than they might through traditional sports and therapies. At HorsePower, we focus on fostering independence in our riding participants. Initially, trained volunteers assist as horse leaders and side-walkers but gradually step back as riders demonstrate their ability to guide their horses safely. We encourage all participants to take the time to learn grooming and tacking, enriching their bond with the horse and enhancing skill acquisition. Thanks to our founders and the dedicated HP team, our Therapeutic Riding Program has experienced significant growth. In addition to traditional riding lessons, we now offer Ranch Connections (a trauma-informed program for individuals affected by trauma), Critter Connections (a one-on-one program featuring smaller animals), and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)—all available through private and semi-private weekly lessons. Since our inception, our program has expanded from 4 participants to an impressive 72, with a growing waitlist. Our organization is supported by a 12-member board of directors and a committed staff of 2 full-time and 8 part-time employees, which includes 6 PATH-certified instructors, 1 Natural Lifemanship Equine Professional, 1 Animal Assisted Activities Professional, 2 Equine Managers, and an Office Manager. Together, we are backed by an incredible volunteer team of over 100 passionate individuals. Our programs have successfully served participants across Kane, DeKalb, DuPage, Kendall, and Cook counties. Since our establishment, we have built a strong foundation for a sustainable and flourishing program that will continue to serve countless participants in the years to come. We invite our generous donors to support us in this mission, helping us expand our reach and impact even further!