Heart Strides Therapeutic Horsemanship is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization located in Olympia, Washington, dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults through adaptive horseback riding and therapeutic horsemanship. The program is founded on the belief that horses provide unique opportunities for physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth while helping participants build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections.
The organization provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals of varying abilities can experience the many benefits of working with horses. Through individualized instruction, trained volunteers, and carefully selected horses, Heart Strides Therapeutic Horsemanship creates opportunities for riders to achieve personal goals while developing life skills both in and out of the saddle.
About This Program
Heart Strides Therapeutic Horsemanship offers adaptive horseback riding and equine-assisted activities designed to help participants improve balance, coordination, communication, confidence, and overall well-being. Each lesson is tailored to the rider’s individual needs and abilities, allowing participants to progress at their own pace in a supportive and encouraging setting.
In addition to mounted riding, the program incorporates horsemanship education, horse grooming, groundwork, and horse care activities. These experiences encourage responsibility, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of horses while promoting physical and emotional development.
Services Offered
- Adaptive horseback riding lessons
- Therapeutic horsemanship programs
- Equine-assisted activities
- Individualized riding instruction
- Horsemanship education
- Horse grooming and care instruction
- Groundwork and horse handling activities
- Volunteer-supported riding sessions
- Community outreach and educational programs
Who They Serve
- Children with disabilities
- Teens and adults with disabilities
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with cognitive or learning challenges
- Riders who benefit from adaptive instruction
- Veterans and military families
- Families seeking equine-assisted experiences
- Individuals looking to build confidence and independence through horses
Facility and Setting
Heart Strides Therapeutic Horsemanship is located in Olympia, Washington, providing a peaceful equestrian environment where participants can safely engage in therapeutic riding and horse-centered learning. The facility offers riding arenas, barns, and dedicated spaces for horsemanship instruction and horse care, creating an atmosphere that supports both learning and personal growth.
The rural setting allows riders to experience the calming benefits of spending time with horses while participating in structured equine-assisted activities designed to promote confidence, independence, and skill development.
What Makes Them Unique
Heart Strides Therapeutic Horsemanship is distinguished by its participant-centered approach, combining adaptive riding with comprehensive horsemanship education. The organization focuses on building meaningful relationships between horses and participants while supporting each individual’s personal, physical, and emotional goals.
Through dedicated instructors, volunteers, and carefully matched horses, the program provides accessible equine-assisted services that encourage lifelong learning, community involvement, and improved quality of life. Its commitment to creating an inclusive environment ensures that participants of all abilities have the opportunity to experience the transformative benefits of working with horses.