Milestones Equestrian Achievement Program is a nonprofit therapeutic horseback riding organization located in Independence, Kentucky. Founded in 1999, the program is dedicated to improving the cognitive, physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of individuals through equine-assisted activities. Milestones empowers children, adults, and seniors by helping them build independence, self-confidence, social skills, and personal achievement through meaningful interactions with horses.
The organization’s mission is to present opportunities for individuals with challenges to enhance their quality of life through therapeutic horsemanship. Through a combination of skilled instructors, trained therapy horses, and dedicated volunteers, Milestones creates a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where participants can experience growth, healing, and independence.
About This Program
Milestones offers year-round therapeutic horseback riding lessons designed for individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. Participants learn riding skills, horsemanship, grooming, and horse care while working toward individualized goals that support physical development, emotional wellness, and increased independence.
The organization operates two primary programs. The Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program serves riders with disabilities and special needs, while the Silver Saddles Program provides adults aged 50 and older with opportunities to stay active, socialize, and develop new skills through horseback riding and horsemanship activities.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding lessons
- Adaptive riding instruction
- Therapeutic horsemanship training
- Horse grooming and care education
- Silver Saddles program for adults age 50+
- Equine-assisted recreational activities
- Balance and coordination development
- Strength and muscle conditioning support
- Confidence and self-esteem building
- Social skill development
- Focus and attention enhancement
- Community-based volunteer opportunities
- Individualized riding goals and instruction
- Year-round equine-assisted programming
Who They Serve
Milestones Equestrian Achievement Program may be good for:
- Children ages 3 and older
- Teens and adolescents
- Adults with disabilities
- Seniors age 50 and older
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder
- Individuals with cerebral palsy
- Individuals with Down syndrome
- Individuals with traumatic brain injuries
- Individuals with spina bifida
- Individuals with cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with emotional or behavioral challenges
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals seeking adaptive recreational opportunities
- Families looking for equine-assisted support programs
Facility and Setting
Milestones operates on a 44-acre equestrian facility in Independence, Kentucky. The property includes riding arenas, horse care facilities, viewing areas, and spaces designed to support year-round therapeutic riding activities. The facility provides a welcoming and accessible environment where participants can safely engage with horses and develop new skills.
The program utilizes a herd of carefully selected therapy horses, including Icelandic horses known for their calm temperaments, intelligence, and versatility. Each horse undergoes extensive screening and training to ensure suitability for therapeutic riding and adaptive horsemanship programs.
What Makes Them Unique
Milestones stands out for its long-standing commitment to serving individuals with disabilities and older adults through equine-assisted services. Since its founding in 1999, the organization has helped participants achieve greater independence, confidence, and personal growth through individualized therapeutic riding experiences.
Another distinguishing feature is its dual-program structure, which serves both individuals with disabilities and active older adults through the Silver Saddles program. The organization has also earned recognition for maintaining high standards of safety and quality, achieving PATH International Premier Accredited Center status.