Results: Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited is a non-profit organization that provides therapeutic horseback riding services to special needs children in Northwest Indiana. Based in Hobart Indiana, the program was established in 1979, and has provided services to the children in our communities since that time.
Student riders in the program have a variety of developmental and physical challenges. Our trained instructors develop customized lesson plans for each student, based on the needs and abilities of the student. Students ride for 8-week sessions in the spring and fall, and participate in other special activities throughout the year. Besides the physical benefits of improving balance, coordination, and self-confidence while directing the horse, the riders and their families also develop deep, loving relationships with our horses, and learn the joys of knowing and caring for these gentle animals. For many of the special needs children, the EEU riding session is the highlight of their week.
EEU operates its riding program on a 30-acre horse farm in Hobart Indiana, where we have a barn with an indoor arena, outdoor riding areas, and many pastures for the horses to graze. We currently have 8 specially trained therapy horses in residence at our facility.
It takes many dedicated volunteers to operate a program like this that touches the lives of so many people in our communities. Our volunteers not only work with the children during the riding lessons, but also care for our therapy horses, and assist with the general maintenance of our facilities. It takes many caring people, and good funding, to provide food, and medical care for the horses, and cover other necessary expenses like insurance and utilities.
Exceptional Equestrians funded primarily by private donations. Please help us sustain the program by either volunteering your time or by making a donation. Thank you!
Target demographics: Children and young adults with special needs
Geographic areas served: Northwest Indiana
Programs: Therapeutic horseback riding lessons to approximately 60 children and 10 adults with special needs or disabilities.
