Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley (EEMV) is a nonprofit therapeutic riding center located in Washington, Missouri, dedicated to providing affordable and enjoyable equine-assisted services for individuals with disabilities. Founded in 1991, the organization has spent more than three decades helping children and adults improve physical abilities, emotional well-being, confidence, and quality of life through therapeutic horsemanship experiences. EEMV is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center and was one of the first programs in the country to receive this distinction.
The organization’s mission is to develop and strengthen the mind, body, and spirit through equine-assisted activities and therapies. Through certified instructors, trained therapy horses, and a dedicated volunteer team, EEMV creates opportunities for participants to achieve personal goals while benefiting from the unique therapeutic relationship between humans and horses.
About This Program
Exceptional Equestrians provides therapeutic riding and equine-assisted services for individuals ages two and older with a wide variety of physical, cognitive, developmental, and emotional challenges. Programs are designed to improve balance, coordination, muscle strength, communication, concentration, self-esteem, and social skills through structured horseback riding and horse-related activities.
The organization employs PATH International-certified instructors and maintains rigorous standards for safety, program quality, and participant care. Lessons and activities are tailored to each participant’s abilities and goals, allowing riders to progress at their own pace while developing confidence and independence.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Equine-assisted services
- Adaptive riding instruction
- Licensed therapy services
- Summer therapeutic riding camps
- Therapeutic horsemanship programs
- Individualized riding lessons
- Equine-assisted learning opportunities
- Volunteer-supported riding programs
- Horse care and horsemanship education
- Community outreach programs
- Special events and camps for participants
Who They Serve
Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley may be good for:
- Children ages 2 and older
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorders
- Individuals with ADHD
- Individuals with cerebral palsy
- Individuals with Down syndrome
- Individuals with developmental delays
- Individuals with spinal cord injuries
- Individuals with traumatic brain injuries
- Individuals with genetic disorders
- Individuals with attachment disorders
- Individuals seeking adaptive recreational opportunities
- Families looking for therapeutic equine services
Facility and Setting
EEMV operates from its facility in Washington, Missouri, where participants have access to specially selected therapy horses and a supportive therapeutic riding environment. The organization maintains a herd of therapy horses chosen for their temperament, movement, and suitability for serving riders with varying abilities and goals.
The atmosphere is welcoming, participant-focused, and community-oriented. Certified instructors, volunteers, and therapy horses work together to provide a safe setting where riders can experience success, build relationships, and develop new skills through equine-assisted activities.
What Makes Them Unique
Exceptional Equestrians stands out for its long history of service and national recognition within the therapeutic riding industry. Founded in 1991, the organization has maintained PATH International accreditation since 1994 and was among the first centers to achieve Premier Accredited Center status when the designation was introduced in 2002.
Another distinguishing feature is its experienced staff and extensive therapy horse program. EEMV utilizes a diverse herd of specially trained horses and PATH-certified instructors to support participants with a broad range of diagnoses and therapeutic goals. The program has also received numerous regional and national awards recognizing its riders, volunteers, horses, and staff.