Location: Augusta, Michigan, United States
Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center is a long-running nonprofit equine-assisted services program based in Augusta, Michigan. Founded in 1969, the center provides horse-based services designed to support individuals with special needs while also serving as a training and education site within the therapeutic riding field.
The organization offers a broader mix of services than many riding programs. In addition to therapeutic riding, Cheff also lists hippotherapy, ground programming, instructor training and mentoring, and industry education among its core offerings.
About This Program
Cheff’s programming is built around equine-assisted services for individuals with a wide range of disabilities and special needs. Its public materials describe a mission focused on improving emotional and physical well-being through the therapeutic use of horses, with services available to riders of different ages and ability levels.
The center also stands out for its educational role. Alongside direct client services, Cheff hosts instructor training, mentoring, and PATH Intl. certification-related programming, which gives it a strong presence not only as a service provider for riders but also as a professional development resource in the field.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic riding
- Hippotherapy
- Ground programming
- Instructor training and mentoring
- Industry education
- Volunteer-supported equine-assisted services
Who They Serve
Cheff may be a good fit for:
- Children with special needs
- Adults with special needs
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with emotional challenges
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with autism or learning disabilities
- Individuals with brain injuries
- Individuals with hearing or vision impairments
- Families looking for equine-assisted services in southwest Michigan
Facility and Setting
Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center operates from 8450 North 43rd Street in Augusta, Michigan. Its facility supports both direct client services and educational programming, giving it the feel of a center that serves riders, volunteers, and professionals within the same equestrian setting.
Its long history and established physical site help set it apart as a durable presence in the region. The center continues to present itself as an active organization with volunteer opportunities, client services, and training programs all based from its Augusta location.
What Makes Them Unique
One of Cheff’s most distinctive features is its dual role. It functions both as a provider of equine-assisted services for riders and as a training and education center for the broader therapeutic riding industry.
Its long operating history also makes it notable. With roots going back to 1969, Cheff appears to be one of the more established equine-assisted services organizations in Michigan, and its inclusion of hippotherapy, ground programming, and instructor development gives it a wider scope than a riding-only program.