Equestrian Connection
Lake Forest, Illinois
Equestrian Connection is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Lake Forest, Illinois that provides equine-assisted programs for children, adults and families of all abilities. Its offerings include hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, mental health programs, a veterans program and day programs for teens and young adults.
- Hippotherapy led by licensed therapy professionals
- Therapeutic riding with a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
- Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (individual)
- Mental health groups for youth, adults and women
- Re-Connect program for veterans and families
- Reading Confidence program
- Wranglers Day Program and Job Skills program
- Group and school visits
- Children
- Adults
- Families
- People of all abilities
- Veterans and their families
- Teens and young adults who have finished school
- Schools, nonprofits and care communities
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, hippotherapy sessions are led by licensed therapy professionals; the site names occupational and physical therapists, and one section also lists speech-language therapy. Trained volunteers and staff lead and walk alongside the horse. Therapeutic riding is taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. The site says participants may start with therapy and move to adaptive riding once clinical goals are met.
The center lists individual equine-facilitated psychotherapy led by licensed mental health professionals, plus groups including Interconnections for ages 10 to 13, Stable-ity for adults and Unbridled Self for women. Its Re-Connect program for veterans and their families is offered at no charge, the site says. The website lists membership in the American Hippotherapy Association.
Getting Started
New participants begin with the Program Registration Inquiry form on the center's website, followed by an evaluation to set goals and choose the best fit. Call (847) 615-8696 or email office@equestrianconnection.org to ask about current rates. Our guide on equine therapy costs covers what to expect.
Facilities and Volunteering
The website describes a 16,000 sq ft climate-controlled indoor arena, an outdoor arena, trails, a sensory garden and a 2.9-acre pond. Volunteers can take weekly roles, assist with therapy rides or join group volunteer days.
Location
Equestrian Connection is at 600 N Bradley Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045, in Lake County north of Chicago.
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?
Submit the Program Registration Inquiry form on the center's website. Staff then complete an evaluation to decide which service fits best.
How much does it cost?
Fees for most programs are not published, so call (847) 615-8696 to ask. The website says the Re-Connect veterans program is offered at no charge.
Is it for children or adults?
Both. The center serves children, adults and families, with some groups set by age, such as Interconnections for ages 10 to 13.
Is Equestrian Connection a nonprofit?
Yes. ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer lists it as a 501(c)(3) with tax exemption issued in March 2002.
Location
Lake Forest, Illinois 60045
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.