Rein in a Dream (RFK Community Alliance)
Lancaster, Massachusetts
Rein in a Dream is the therapeutic horsemanship and animal-assisted therapy program of RFK Community Alliance in Lancaster, Massachusetts. It offers therapeutic riding, horsemanship, equine-assisted learning and recreational riding for children and adults from age 4. According to its website, it serves RFK residential participants as well as community members from across Massachusetts.
- Therapeutic riding
- Therapeutic horsemanship
- Equine-assisted learning
- Recreational riding (non-competitive)
- Animal-assisted activities, learning and therapy
- Vocational training for young adults
- Children and adults, age 4 and up
- People with mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression and PTSD
- People with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders
- People with Down syndrome or other developmental and cognitive disabilities
- People with physical disabilities
- Young adults moving from school to work
- Local schools and community agencies
More about this center
About the Program
RFK Community Alliance says Rein in a Dream has served children and adults for about 30 years. RFK's Doctor Franklin Perkins School also lists the riding program among activities for its residential students. A specific diagnosis is not required to take part.
The program lists Premier Accreditation from PATH Intl. and says it is the only center in Central and Greater Worcester with that status. Its website says instructors hold PATH Intl. certifications and Massachusetts riding instructor licenses, and are trained in trauma-informed care. Cherie Ansin is listed as Program Director.
The Farm and Schedule
The program sits on 30 acres of farmland with hay fields, trails and a river. It has an 11,000 square foot indoor arena for year-round lessons and a renovated antique barn with a learning center, plus horses, ponies and small farm animals.
Lessons run year-round, seven days a week, in six sessions a year of 7 to 8 lessons each. Admission is rolling, and new riders can join when slots are open.
Location
Rein in a Dream is at 868 Main Street, Lancaster, MA 01523, near the RFK Community Alliance main office at 971 Main Street. The website says it serves participants from across Massachusetts and partners with local schools and community agencies.
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?
Fill out the Request for Information form on the RFK Community Alliance website, or call 978-368-4804 or email riad@rfkcommunity.org. Admission is rolling, and new participants can start when lesson slots are open.
Is it only for Perkins School students?
No. According to its website, the program serves RFK residential participants, community members and people from across Massachusetts, starting at age 4.
How much does it cost?
The website says fees are prorated by enrollment date and that FSA/HSA and card payments are accepted; call 978-368-4804 for rates. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
Location
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523
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.