HART Horses Adaptive Riding & Therapy
Independence, Oregon
HART Horses Adaptive Riding & Therapy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based west of Salem, Oregon. It offers adaptive riding lessons and ground-based equine-assisted learning. Its mission is to support individuals and families facing physical and neurodiverse challenges through horse-related activities.
- Adaptive riding lessons for all skill levels
- Equine-assisted learning (ground-based)
- Client scholarship funds
- Volunteer program
- Children and adults with physical disabilities
- Neurodiverse individuals
- People with cognitive, emotional or social challenges
- Families of riders
- Therapists looking for an alternative option for clients
More about this center
About the Program
HART's adaptive riding program offers recreational riding lessons for people with special needs, adapted to each rider. The program says it teaches riders of all skill levels, from their first contact with a horse to advanced independent riders. Goals are riding-skill based, and HART says riders and parents often report gains in strength, balance, coordination, mobility, confidence, self-control and social skills. Families comparing options can read our guide on how to choose a center.
Equine-assisted learning takes place on the ground rather than in the saddle. Activities around the horses work on confidence, empathy, body and behavioral awareness, and problem-solving, and HART says the program is open to a wide range of disabilities.
The Horses and Staff
The About page lists five horses: Thor, an Icelandic pony; Loki and Piper, Gypsy Vanners; Athena, a Percheron and Gypsy Vanner cross; and Oldermann, a Norwegian Fjord who has been with HART for many years.
Lessons are taught by instructors Hannah Medeiros, Emily Ulrey and Jessica Bauscher. Medeiros rides English and Western and holds a B.A. in American Sign Language Studies from Western Oregon University. Bauscher holds an associate's degree in animal science, animal technology and equine management and has earned Bronze and Silver dressage medals. A volunteer board led by president Joleen Magill oversees the organization.
Volunteering and Events
HART welcomes volunteers whether or not they have horse experience and holds volunteer orientations at the HART Barn, with hands-on tours and training for those who want them. Its yearly calendar includes a scholarship drive in February, the HART Derby golf tournament in May, the HART Horsepower Car Show in July and a wreath sale in November.
Location
HART lists its physical address, home of the HART Barn, as 6050 Willamina-Salem Hwy, Independence, OR 97351, west of Salem. Mail goes to P.O. Box 121, Rickreall, OR 97371. HART has also used West Hills Stables in Salem as an interim riding facility while it builds its own arena, so ask where your sessions will take place when you contact the center. The communities HART lists in its service area are Salem, Keizer, Rickreall, Monmouth, Independence, Stayton and Sublimity.
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?
Contact HART by phone at (971) 289-6119, by email at info@horsesadaptiveriding.org, or through the contact form on its website to ask about openings and where sessions are held.
Does my child need riding experience?
No. HART says its adaptive riding lessons cover all skill levels, starting from a rider's first contact with a horse.
How much do lessons cost?
Call (971) 289-6119 or email info@horsesadaptiveriding.org for current rates. HART has two client scholarship funds, the Josie Magill and Charlie Hoppe memorial funds, and families who need help with the cost can ask about them. See our guide to equine therapy costs for typical ranges.
Can I volunteer without horse experience?
Yes. HART says volunteers are welcome whether they have horse experience or simply want to help, and it holds orientations at the HART Barn.
Location
Independence, Oregon 97351
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.