White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center
Morrison, Illinois
White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center, known as WHOA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Morrison, Illinois. It offers therapeutic riding and other equine-assisted experiences for people with disabilities, from age 4 through adulthood.
- Therapeutic riding lessons
- Equine-assisted experiences
- Sliding fee scale and scholarships
- Children with disabilities (age 4 and up)
- Adults with disabilities
- Families in Whiteside, Lee, Ogle, Carroll and Henry counties, Illinois
- Families in Jackson and Clinton counties, Iowa
More about this center
About the Program
WHOA says its goal is to improve quality of life and support personal growth through therapeutic, educational, recreational and social development. Its 211 listing describes activities that work on physical abilities and daily living skills while giving riders exercise, leisure time and social contact.
WQAD reported that the center's saddles have special attachments to assist riders with disabilities. According to the 211 listing, hours vary but lessons are typically held Tuesday through Saturday mornings, so call for current times.
Getting Started
Riders need a physician's release to take part. The 211 listing says fees are on a sliding scale, private pay is accepted, and scholarships are available to those who qualify, with proof of income requested. Specific prices are not published; see our guide to equine therapy costs for typical ranges.
Community Support
In a 2017 letter to Shaw Local, director Tawny Wiersema thanked WHOA's volunteers and board of directors, and the Whiteside County Fair Board for providing its facility as the program's home. A 2024 Shaw Local report named Wiersema as program director. WHOA holds an annual benefit horse show at the Whiteside County Fairgrounds in Morrison; the 11th annual show took place on June 22, 2024.
Location
WHOA is listed at 201 West Winfield Street, Morrison, IL 61270. Its 211 listing names a service area of Whiteside, Lee, Ogle, Carroll and Henry counties in Illinois and Jackson and Clinton counties in Iowa.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I sign up for lessons?
Call WHOA at (815) 535-6208 for information. The 211 listing says a physician's release is required before riding.
What ages does WHOA serve?
The 211 listing says the program is open to people with disabilities ages 4 and older, and a 2024 news report describes it as serving ages 4 through adult.
How much do lessons cost?
Prices are not published. The center uses a sliding fee scale, accepts private pay and offers scholarships to those who qualify. Call (815) 535-6208 for current fees.
When are lessons held?
According to the 211 listing, lessons are typically on Tuesday through Saturday mornings, but times vary. Call (815) 535-6208 for the current schedule.
Location
Morrison, Illinois 61270
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.