Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization serving Central Indiana from its facility in Whitestown, Indiana. Founded in 1998, the organization is dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and adults with physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges through equine-assisted therapies and activities. What began as a small therapeutic riding program has grown into a respected community resource that has enriched thousands of lives through the healing power of horses.
The center’s mission is to help individuals facing challenges achieve greater confidence, independence, physical ability, and emotional well-being through meaningful interactions with horses. Morning Dove provides a welcoming and supportive environment where participants can develop skills, build relationships, and experience personal growth through equine-assisted programs.
About This Program
Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center offers therapeutic riding and therapeutic horsemanship programs designed to contribute to the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with special needs. Participants work alongside certified instructors, trained volunteers, and carefully selected therapy horses to achieve individualized goals in a safe and encouraging setting.
The organization strives to make equine-assisted services accessible to individuals who may not have access to traditional therapies due to financial or resource limitations. In addition to therapeutic riding lessons, Morning Dove offers equine-facilitated learning opportunities, workshops, camps, field trips, and community programs that expand the benefits of horse-human interactions beyond the riding arena.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding lessons
- Therapeutic horsemanship programs
- Equine-assisted activities
- Equine-facilitated learning programs
- Adaptive riding instruction
- Horse care and grooming education
- Workshops and educational programs
- Field trips and experiential learning opportunities
- Summer camps and youth programs
- Confidence and self-esteem development
- Social and communication skill building
- Balance and coordination improvement
- Cognitive skill enhancement
- Volunteer-supported therapeutic services
- Community outreach programs
Who They Serve
Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center may be good for:
- Children with disabilities
- Adolescents and teens
- Adults with disabilities
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with emotional challenges
- Individuals with behavioral challenges
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals seeking adaptive recreational opportunities
- Families seeking equine-assisted support programs
- Schools and community organizations
- Veterans and community members interested in equine-assisted learning
Facility and Setting
Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center operates from a dedicated equestrian facility in Whitestown, Indiana, serving participants throughout the greater Indianapolis region. The facility provides a safe and supportive environment where riders can engage in therapeutic riding, horsemanship education, and equine-assisted learning activities.
The center relies on a team of certified instructors, therapy horses, and trained volunteers who work together to support participant success. Horses are carefully managed to ensure the safety and well-being of both participants and equine partners, reflecting the organization’s commitment to high-quality programming and horse welfare.
What Makes Them Unique
Morning Dove Therapeutic Riding Center stands out for its long history of service to Central Indiana. Since 1998, the organization has remained committed to improving lives through equine-assisted services while continuously expanding its programs and community impact. Over more than two decades, the center has helped thousands of participants develop confidence, independence, and life skills through meaningful experiences with horses.
Another distinguishing feature is its holistic approach to participant development. By combining therapeutic riding, horsemanship education, equine-facilitated learning, and strong volunteer support, Morning Dove creates opportunities for growth that extend beyond physical riding skills to include emotional, social, and cognitive development.