More than just horseback riding
HorseSense is an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of youth, adults and Veterans with disabilities through a partnership with the horse. HorseSense strives to improve the bodies, minds and spirits of riders by providing weekly therapeutic horseback riding classes that:
- Improve physical health
- Provide a sense of accomplishment and control
- Create a positive environment for learning
- Emphasize the capabilities of each rider
There are several benefits youth and adults with cognitive, physical, psychological and mental disabilities experience throughout lessons as they master their riding skills. Sitting astride a horse increases balance and coordination, strengthens muscles and brings about body awareness, for example. And through complex, interactive lessons, riders practice their speech, reading and problem-solving skills as they learn to follow instructions.
Other benefits include: improved reflexes, weight-bearing ability, range of motion, stamina, hand-eye coordination, sensory integration, left/right discrimination, decision-making, independence, patience, physical fitness and responsibility.
By means of our HorseSense for Heroes Veterans program, we also address the special rehabilitative needs of military personnel who are recovering from injuries sustained in the line of duty, such as traumatic brain injuries, amputation, depression, guilt, grief, anger, panic attacks, sleep disorders and PTSD. Lessons are designed to address specific issues faced by wounded and traumatized military personnel, while providing a supportive and therapeutic environment for their families and loved ones.
HorseSense is a certified 501c3 nonprofit organization. The success and continuation of our program depends solely on the support of our community. We are grateful for any amount of money you are able to give!