Courage Kenny Riders is an adaptive horseback riding program offered through the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, part of Allina Health. The program provides therapeutic recreational horseback riding opportunities for children and youth with disabilities, helping participants improve physical function, confidence, independence, and overall well-being through structured equestrian activities. Riding sessions are conducted in a safe, supportive environment with trained instructors, volunteers, and carefully selected horses.
As part of Courage Kenny’s Adaptive Sports and Recreation programs, Courage Kenny Riders encourages participants to develop new skills while enjoying the physical, emotional, and social benefits of horseback riding. The program complements the institute’s broader mission of helping individuals with disabilities live active, healthy, and independent lives through innovative rehabilitation and recreational opportunities.
About This Program
Courage Kenny Riders offers adaptive horseback riding sessions for youth ages 5–21 with disabilities. The program uses horseback riding as a form of therapeutic recreation to promote balance, posture, coordination, muscle strength, communication, confidence, and independence. Lessons are designed to meet each participant’s individual abilities and goals while providing a positive and enjoyable equestrian experience.
Sessions are held at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Lake Elmo and are supported by trained volunteers who assist riders throughout each lesson. Physician approval and parent or guardian permission are required before participation, ensuring every rider receives appropriate support and accommodations.
Services Offered
- Adaptive horseback riding lessons
- Therapeutic recreational horseback riding
- Individualized riding instruction
- Volunteer-assisted riding sessions
- Youth adaptive recreation programs
- Confidence and independence development
- Balance and coordination improvement
- Physical activity for individuals with disabilities
- Inclusive recreational opportunities
- Adaptive Sports and Recreation programming
Who They Serve
Courage Kenny Riders may be good for:
- Children ages 5–21 with disabilities
- Youth with physical disabilities
- Youth with developmental disabilities
- Youth with neurological conditions
- Children requiring adaptive recreation opportunities
- Families seeking therapeutic recreational horseback riding
- Individuals looking to improve confidence and independence through equine activities
Facility and Setting
Courage Kenny Riders conducts its adaptive horseback riding sessions at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Lake Elmo, Minnesota. The facility provides a safe and accessible environment where riders can participate in mounted activities under the supervision of trained instructors and volunteers. The outdoor equestrian setting allows participants to experience the many physical and emotional benefits of horseback riding while developing riding skills in a supportive atmosphere.
The program is part of the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute’s Adaptive Sports and Recreation department, which offers a wide variety of adaptive recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities throughout Minnesota.
What Makes Them Unique
Courage Kenny Riders is unique because it combines adaptive horseback riding with the extensive rehabilitation expertise of the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. As part of one of Minnesota’s leading rehabilitation organizations, participants benefit from a program that emphasizes safety, accessibility, inclusion, and individualized support while promoting lifelong participation in recreation and wellness.
Another distinguishing feature is its integration within Courage Kenny’s Adaptive Sports and Recreation program, allowing participants and families to access a wide range of adaptive activities beyond horseback riding, encouraging continued physical activity and community involvement.