Heartland Horses Equine Activities & Learning (HHEAL) is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization located in Avon Park, Florida. Founded in 1998, the organization is dedicated to significantly improving the lives of children and adults with physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges through therapeutic riding and horse-related activities. HHEAL believes that experiencing and riding horses in a safe yet challenging environment can foster personal growth, confidence, independence, and improved quality of life.
Originally established as Horses & Handicapped, the program has grown from a small volunteer initiative into a respected community resource serving individuals with diverse needs. Through adaptive riding, horsemanship activities, and equine-assisted learning experiences, HHEAL provides opportunities for participants to achieve meaningful physical, cognitive, emotional, and social goals while developing strong connections with horses and volunteers.
About This Program
Heartland Horses Equine Activities & Learning offers low-cost equine-assisted services designed to help individuals with disabilities and special needs improve motor skills, balance, coordination, posture, strength, confidence, and social engagement. The program utilizes adaptive riding and equine-assisted learning approaches to make the benefits of horsemanship accessible to participants of varying abilities.
Participants engage in riding lessons, grooming activities, horse care experiences, and educational interactions that encourage growth and achievement. Programs are tailored to individual abilities and goals, helping riders develop independence while benefiting from the physical movement and emotional connection that horses provide.
Services Offered
- Adaptive riding lessons
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Equine-assisted learning programs
- Horsemanship education
- Grooming and horse care activities
- Confidence-building equine experiences
- Social skills development programs
- Physical fitness and mobility enhancement
- Life skills development through horses
- Recreational riding opportunities
- Special Olympics preparation and participation support
- Volunteer-supported equine activities
- Summer camps and lesson programs
- Community-based equine-assisted services
Who They Serve
Heartland Horses Equine Activities & Learning may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with emotional or behavioral challenges
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with cerebral palsy
- Individuals with spina bifida
- Individuals with muscular dystrophy
- Individuals with multiple sclerosis
- Individuals with Down syndrome
- Individuals recovering from strokes or injuries
- Families seeking adaptive recreational opportunities
Facility and Setting
Heartland Horses operates from its barn facility in Avon Park, Florida, where participants engage in equine-assisted activities in a welcoming and supportive environment. The facility provides access to trained therapy horses, riding areas, and volunteer support that help ensure safe and successful experiences for riders of all abilities.
The organization relies on donated horses, dedicated volunteers, and community support to deliver its programs. The environment encourages personal achievement, social interaction, and meaningful relationships between participants, horses, families, and volunteers.
What Makes Them Unique
Heartland Horses stands out for its long-standing commitment to providing affordable equine-assisted services to individuals with disabilities and special needs. Since 1998, the organization has helped participants improve physical abilities, gain confidence, and develop independence through structured horse-related activities.
Another distinguishing feature is its broad approach to equine-assisted services. In addition to adaptive riding, HHEAL incorporates horsemanship education, equine-assisted learning, and life-skills development opportunities that help participants build confidence and achieve personal goals both inside and outside the arena.