Forward in Faith Ranch
Bessemer, Alabama
Forward in Faith Ranch is a faith-based nonprofit in Bessemer, Alabama, that pairs therapeutic horsemanship with sharing the Gospel. It offers group and semi-private riding lessons, English and Western riding, interactive vaulting, an equestrian team and a summer riding program. Its programs are open to people of all backgrounds and abilities.
- Therapeutic horsemanship
- Group riding lessons
- Semi-private riding lessons
- English and Western riding
- Interactive vaulting
- Equestrian team
- Fall and spring home horse shows
- Summer Ride Like a Pro Adventure
- People of all backgrounds and abilities
- Beginner, intermediate and advanced riders
- Families seeking a faith-based program
More about this center
About the Program
Forward in Faith Ranch describes its mission as enhancing lives through therapeutic horsemanship while sharing the Gospel, in an equestrian and agricultural setting.
Group lessons run on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons, with sessions starting at 2:00, 2:30, 3:15 and 4:30 pm. Semi-private lessons are held on Saturday mornings between 7:00 am and noon, in 45-minute sessions. Riders can also take part in interactive vaulting, join the equestrian team and show at the ranch's fall and spring home shows.
Summer Ride Like a Pro Adventure
The summer program runs on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:15 to 11:00 am and welcomes beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. Mornings include riding lessons, horsemanship, games, crafts, devotionals with praise and worship, and water activities when the weather allows. The program is $150 per week, and families register with an online form and pay in full to hold a spot.
The Horses
The herd has 12 horses: five Quarter Horses, three Thoroughbreds, a Percheron, a Friesian/Percheron cross, a draft cross and a Tennessee Walking Horse.
Volunteering
Volunteers serve as side walkers and horse handlers during lessons, groom and tack horses, help with feeding and barn care, and take on farm work such as landscaping and building projects. There are also roles at special events, supply drives, fundraising and in the office. Contact the ranch to get involved.
Location
Forward in Faith Ranch is at 2120 Quail Drive, Bessemer, AL 35022, southwest of Birmingham.
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 sign up for lessons at Forward in Faith Ranch?
Call or text 205-370-2981, or email fifranch@gmail.com. A text or call gets the fastest response.
When are lessons held?
Group lessons are on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons, and semi-private lessons are 45-minute sessions on Saturday mornings.
How much do lessons cost?
The summer program is $150 per week. For regular lesson rates, call or text 205-370-2981. You can also read our guide to equine therapy costs.
Is the program faith-based?
Yes. The ranch shares the Gospel as part of its work, and the summer program includes devotionals, praise and worship.
Location
Bessemer, Alabama 35022
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.