Offering Alternative Therapy w/Smiles, Inc.
Ortonville, Michigan
Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles (O.A.T.S.) is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit on 40 acres in Ortonville, Michigan, founded in 1997 according to its website. It offers on-lead and off-lead therapeutic riding classes and equine assisted learning, and says it serves all ages and disabilities year round.
- On-lead therapeutic riding classes
- Off-lead therapeutic riding classes (pre-approval required)
- Equine assisted learning
- Golden Saddles senior riding program
- Homeschool farm and riding programs
- School field trips and farm tours
- People of all ages
- Individuals with disabilities
- Seniors
- Homeschool students and school groups
- Participants in partner programs for autism and memory care
More about this center
About the Program
Riding classes are sold by multi-week session rather than per class. The website lists on-lead classes on weekday evenings, Wednesday mornings and Saturdays, and off-lead classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. It says classes last 45 minutes, are usually limited to five riders, and that new riders may be placed on a wait list.
The center lists partnerships with Oakland University's OUCares autism program, the Alzheimer's Association of Michigan, Scouting America and Tamarack Camps. It says it partners with PATH Intl. and CHA for therapeutic riding instructor certification, and its Instructors page lists an instructor certified through CHA as an instructor of riders with disabilities.
Volunteering
O.A.T.S. accepts volunteers of all ages and says no experience is needed. Roles include lesson helpers, summer camp help and a horse care and training team that works with a pasture of horses. Volunteers under 12 must bring an adult, and those over 15 can lead horses in classes. Contact volunteers@oatshrh.org.
Location
O.A.T.S. is at 4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462, on a 40-acre property.
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 register a new rider?
The Programs page links separate registration forms for new and returning riders. New registrations may go on a wait list. Questions go to contact@oatshrh.org or (248) 245-1020.
How much do classes cost?
The center's website lists current session fees. Payment is per session, fees are non-refundable, and there are no make-up classes for rider cancellations. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
What is needed before the first class?
Riders need a signed physician release form, available on the website, and their own horseback riding helmet. Off-lead classes require pre-approval before registering.
Location
Ortonville, Michigan 48462
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.