SMART with HEART
Bradenton, Florida
SMART with HEART (legally Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, Inc.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Bradenton, Florida. Its website describes it as a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center offering adaptive riding, equine-assisted learning and programs for veterans and first responders. It says its programs are for people of all ages and abilities, including those with physical disabilities, emotional trauma or developmental delays.
- Adaptive riding (Empowerment Reins)
- Equine-assisted learning (Guided Reins)
- Veterans program (Freedom Reins)
- First responders program (Frontline Reins)
- Horsemanship and showmanship (Gentle Reins of Hope)
- School partnership programs (Reins to Success)
- Children and teens
- Adults
- People with physical disabilities
- People with developmental delays
- People affected by emotional trauma
- Veterans
- First responders
More about this center
About the Program
In September 2024 the Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART) merged with Hooves with HEART, another East County nonprofit, and the combined group took the name SMART with HEART, according to the Observer. It operates from SMART's 23-acre property on County Road 675. IRS records show the organization has held tax-exempt status since 1991.
The website says lessons are taught by PATH Intl. certified therapeutic riding instructors with trained volunteers, and lists covered arenas, pastures and accessible amenities. A 2025 volunteer listing says the group serves nearly 600 children and adults each year.
Volunteering
The organization uses trained volunteers in its lessons. An August 2025 Idealist posting says volunteers must be 14 or older, attend orientation and training, and pass a background check. No horse experience is required. Lessons run six days a week, and each lesson asks for a commitment of at least 90 minutes. Volunteer roles include leading horses, walking alongside riders, grooming and barn chores.
Location
SMART with HEART is at 4640 County Road 675, Bradenton, FL 34211, in eastern Manatee County, on a 23-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 enroll a rider?
Call (941) 322-2000 or email info@smartwithheart.org to ask about openings. Our guide on how to choose a center lists questions to ask.
How much do lessons cost?
Call (941) 322-2000 to ask about current rates and any financial help.
Is there a program for veterans?
Yes. The website lists Freedom Reins for veterans and Frontline Reins for first responders. See our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. An August 2025 volunteer listing says volunteers must be at least 14, complete orientation and training, and pass a background check. No horse experience is needed.
Location
Bradenton, Florida 34211
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.