The past year at Whispering Manes has been nothing short of miraculous for our family. We have seen our daughter grow in ways we never thought possible. We are so thankful for all the work done by this organization to improve the lives of the students and families they serve.
I have been teaching therapeutic riding for more than 15 years. This is a wonderful organization. They really care about the participants and their families. Their horses are very kind and well cared for. The staff makes certain that everyone is safe and enjoys their time with the horses. The barn and grounds are very well kept. Overall a very an excellent place learn about horses!
I thoroughly enjoy volunteering at Whispering Manes because the clients and the horses are all treated with loving, compassion and respect. The facility is perfectly clean and well organized. Working with challenged children and adults is very fulfilling the equine therapy provided brings smiles to their faces!
As a volunteer I can see the improvement in the children from week to week that participate in the program. The staff are amazing working both with the children and horses. I love volunteering here
I've worked in another field with persons with various motor, educational and learning challenges. It is so obvious to me how much the interactions between the riders and horses enhances the experiences of the children and adults in the WM programs. The kids especially bond with their favorite horses, and the instructors are well qualified in equine-assisted activities.
My daughter Jean, who is 14 years old, almost 15; had attended the Summer Camp last summer and is now going there for her weekly riding sessions.
She absolutely loves Whispering Manes.
We do, too!! It’s a wonderful organization!!!
My horse and I have been at Whispering Manes for almost a year and we have never felt more at home. The grounds are peaceful and beautiful, the staff/ volunteers are always so helpful and really make you feel comfortable. Everything is so well taken care of and the work they do is amazing. Truly a special place. So glad I am able to be apart of it.
I love coming here because I love spending time with the horses and helping the kids. I love helping the kids.
We went to Whispering Manes to help our son, who is autistic, with his posture. The riding certainly had helped him with that but Whispering Manes has been so much more. He loves his time there and has grown in his self esteem. Everyone there has been great and we couldn’t be happier working with them all.
Exceptional organization! The facility is beautiful. The covered riding ring is wonderful and a welcome relief from the Miami sun. The horses are gentle and beautifully cared for. Robin, the Program Director and riding instructor is just amazing with the kids. My daughter looks forward to her lesson every week. If I could give them a 100 star review, I would!
I started volunteering because of school and continued after graduation because of the excellent work this nonprofit organization does. It has been an amazing opportunity and a great way to give back to the community.
Whispering manes has been such an amazing experience. The staff are so caring and knowledgeable. They are patient. The horses are gentle and the environment is one of inclusion and caring. She is making great progress thanks to whispering Manes !!!!
Visiting Whispering Manes was a very amazing experience. The horses are just beautiful and the connection that are created are very good for the well-being of the kids that participate in the activities.
They provide a life changing connection for all.Keep up the amazing work.
My son loves it there. We’re so impressed with his progress. Robin and the team are fantastic. And a huge plus is the covered riding ring with fans!
My daughter has been riding for months now, and loves it. All the staff is very kind and has lots of patience.
When I think about Whispering Manes, I think of a place where individuals can come and participate in an experience that is fun, educational, relaxing, and most of all safe. We have been coming here for a little more than a year now, however, my students have been coming for a lot longer than that. When I ask my students if they are ready to see Honey or Ben, they immediately become filled with excitement. The staff are friendly and welcoming and all have extensive knowledge on the care of horses and the proper techniques suited for all individuals of different special needs. I enjoy coming here and I know that everyone else does too. The environment is peaceful and stressfree and in my opinion, a great place to learn.
My granddaughter rides for about 5years is the best place in the world with lots of patience and kindness for all the riders I highly recommend whispering Manes therapeutic center.
I am proud to be a volunteer for this organization. I am impressed with the healing environment they have created for people (children and adults) with special needs.
This welcoming, supportive, and healing environment extends to the volunteers as well as the participants. On a personal note, I have some physical limitations as a result of an injury and I am still able to contribute. This is because they are willing to work with me. I do not have enough room here to say more details about how positive this organization is and how wonderful their staff is.
We have had an amazing experience at Whispering Manes Riding Center. Everyone we have worked with has been extremely professional, kind and patient. The program has helped my son in countless ways. Very grateful to have access to this therapy.
We at Just Kids Kids Centers have been taking students with special needs to Whispering Manes and they love0 it! The staff is caring and the therapy is very effective. Whispering Manes offers several equine-assisted programs such as the Veteran’s Program, Manes and Tales, and more. The center aims to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being by offering the opportunity to interact with dedicated horses in a manner that encourages healing and improved self-esteem. We highly recommend Whispering Manes for anyone looking for a therapeutic riding and caring center in Miami, Florida. Take a look at our experience: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CvN2FDTt3-e/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
I’m a student in Miami Dade College’s School of Education pursuing a degree in k-12 Exceptional Student Education. One of my courses required my group and I to volunteer our time at a non profit organization. It didn’t take much time until I stumbled across Whispering Manes. Being an animal lover and future educator of students with disabilities, experiencing what Whispering Manes has in store for field trips has been eye-opening. I have learned the importance of keeping horses areas clean and reading their body language to know if they are calm or distressed. During my time, I’ve loved working with children while they groom the mini horses as well as being able to walk with them. This place is beautiful and I see myself returning in the near future.
My daughter was blessed to find this beautiful property where she can ride and get stronger each time she rides. The property is beautiful, incredibly maintained, when you are here it feels so peaceful. The staff is helpful and very thoughtful when helping the rider with special needs. My daughter is happy and inspired to keep riding. She has been so lucky to have found Whispering Manes!
A hidden gem in Miami-Dade county's Horse Country. Wonderful programs, staff, and HORSES serving children and adults with special needs or disabilities!
What an amazing organization. My daughter has been riding for a few years and can't get enough. They have incredible trainers and volunteers. They not only teach her how to ride a horse but to care for them. My daughter has become more focused, self-assured and independent. Robin and Sarah are amazing. You not only take your child for a lesson you feel you are part of a family. We are blessed to have found such an amazing facility.
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Whispering Manes provides a warm and loving environment for riders. My daughter has developed many skills from their therapeutic services. We are grateful to Robyn, the team, and all the volunteers that make Whispering Manes possible.
I work for a nonprofit pediatric oncology organization. We love Whispering Manes. They are very accommodating to our clients. Atmosphere and classes are always fun and educational.
My daughter was diagnosed with kidney cancer at age 6, we were lucky to meet whispering manes riding center. They help a lot with my child recovery and mental health. We were coming during chemotherapy and after finishing it. It is very useful and healing for a child to interact with those lovely horses. News that we are coming over to center was always making my daughter extremely happy. Her favorite was always painting horses. Staff members are amazing. They always help to accommodate us, because then a child goes through the treatment, it is not easy not only for a child, but also for the whole family.
What a beautiful experience for our kids! Very organized, interactive and tranquil. Will definitely repeat!
A special thanks for Robin and the team!
What a great experience. The kids loved the crafts where they got to express there creative talent . They all got to ride they horse and play games in the ring. We had a great lunch with the Big Cheese pizza.
This place is absolutely amazing, it is clean, friendly and fun!! Horses are sweet and gentle with kids, staff is super helpful!! Definitely a five star!! Can’t wait to go again
As a veterinary student looking to improve on my knowledge and experience around horses, whispering manes delivered exactly what I was looking for and more. Surrounded by incredible staff and even more enthusiastic campers this organization taught me an appreciation for a side of animal care I had not considered prior. The staff take you under their wing as a volunteer and show you the ropes in taking care of the animals as well as creating an interactive environment with the campers to bring about an environment of teaching and appreciation not just for the animals, but for the people as well.
I am an Intern here at WM, and have had a great 5 weeks. The facility and instructors at WM are amazing! Working with the horses and people here has been so rewarding. I loved my experience here!
I like to volunteer here because I get to work with kids and spend time with the horses from whispering manes.
I had a great experience interning here at whispering manes for Recreational Therapy at FIU. I enjoyed working with the kids here and the horses were amazing to work with. I gained a lot of experience horse handling, helping out kids, and grooming/caring for horses. They are an amazing center and really care for everyone.
I LOVE this place! Made a difference in my son’s behavior ;this is the highlight of his week and while we were on vacation in Colorado he was able to apply ALL skills learn in the last 3 months with Robin and her staff.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! For your wonderful dedication and interest in improving our children life.
I’ve been volunteering for almost a year
I love, love, love this place. The horses and instructors are awesome, and I love seeing the smiles on all the riders’ faces.
Sofia’s Hope sponsored a field trip for cancer patients to Whispering Manes. This has been such an amazing experience and we are beyond thankful to the wonderful people here. When our children were riding the horses, they were people around them at all times fostering a very safe environment. They were able to do games while on the horse (Simon Says and “Musical Chairs”). All the volunteers and workers were extremely patient and kind. They clearly love working here and what they do. The horses were adorable and there was plenty to do (scavenger hunts and grooming mini horses). Even if it would have rained, everything was undercover. Even though we were outside and there were fans and plenty of space to spread out. COVID-19 guidelines were implemented and everyone wore masks even though we were outside. We are immensely grateful and thankful. Hopefully we will be able to come back.
My therapeutic riding experience at Whispering Manes has been fantastic. I have been seeing real improvement in the areas where I needed help. The barn is beautiful and peaceful and Robin is very kind and purposeful. I’m so grateful that a place like Whispering Manes is available for equestrian therapy in Miami. What a treasure.
I am a teacher at Crystal Academy Primary school. We work with students on the Autism Spectrum and those with related disabilities. We have been blessed with the opportunity to bring our students to Whispering Manes for several years. I have personally observed the joy and positive effects that therapeutic horseback riding produces. Robin is extremely knowledgeable and caring. My students are in very good hands with her and the volunteers at the center. The horses are beautiful and well cared for. My students express their excitement to ride and groom the horses each week. I have observed increases in expressive language and emotional regulation and sometimes decreases in stereotypic behaviors. They work on a multitude of skills including coordination, balance, and improved posture. Whispering Manes is an incredible resource for our community. Amazing people
This is a fantastic riding center for the special needs population. Our children made huge strides in 10 weeks and we keep coming back for more. Therapeutic riding works on sensory integration, motion, desensitization from fears, following directions, caring, feeding, brushing, and bonding among others. It has been a true blessing for our children and therapists.
I wish I could give 100 stars!!! The entire staff is phenomenal! Extremely caring. They show an imense amount compassion. Ever since our first visit here my daughter has gained such a passion for horses and absolutely loves visiting! Robin is beyond amazing! She's such a blessing! Thank you to Whispering pines for giving us this opportunity!
I began a mentorship at Whispering Manes over a year ago to become to a therapeutic riding instructor. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the program. The riders and volunteers that come have told me many times that they love being here and so do I. They are very patient, kind and have lots of compassion. The horses are wonderful to work with, very safe and know their jobs. It’s been a privilege to be apart of the whispering manes family. I would highly recommended the program to any student.
AMAZING!!We are so grateful to have Whispering Manes in our lives! What a difference it is making!!
My Father is a brain injury patient and Robin has been so patient, professional, kind and amazing! My Father, who is speech impaired due to his accident, speaks so much more and clearer while in the premises of Whispering Manes... We have been going for many years and now in the middle of this pandemic it is the only place where we feel safe and relaxed. It is wheel chair accessible, everything is clean and extremely safe. Every single horse is extremely well trained, the place is beautiful and for us it has been magical... my daughter, who comes with us is always looking forward to each of my Father’s session therapy....
My son, Lucas has been going to Whispering Manes for the past year. I have nothing but praise for Robin and her staff, they make sure Lucas’ needs and security are always met. Robin is always making sure that his posture, balance, and of course, enjoyment are in check. Seeing my son having fun while receiving the needed attention is a blessing.
I have been a volunteer for a couple of events and I love it.
Everyone is so happy and just to see the joy on the kids faces when they are on the horse or grooming it, is priceless!
The location is "heaven", the horses are very well kept and the instructors really know what they are doing.
It is a wonderful place for kids and adults and their contribution to families is so important!
WHISPERING MANES RULES!!!!
I am a volunteer and was briefly an intern at Whispering Manes and became inspired by the program. The staff's care for the horses and the students truly shine through and make every experience at the barn a rewarding one. Overall it has a great positive atmosphere and does amazing work helping people with special needs. Highly recommend!
I am an OT student that was observing at Whispering Manes for the past 2 weeks . My experience here has been awesome! The campers had a lot of fun with all of the activities and riding lessons. I learned a lot about what to do and what not to do in when dealing with challenging situations!
I have been volunteering with this amazing organization since 2014, either helping out as a horse handler, side walker or riding the horses myself and since I am a professional photographer, I also volunteer at all their events documenting the activities. Erin and Robin are very professional and do a super job at attending to kids and adults in our community that need help. They also take great care of the horses! I would definitely recommend Whispering Manes!
Whispering Manes is a beautiful place with wonderful staff and fun activities for my son. They teach him more than just horsemanship. They build his confidence, teach responsibility, and independence. The physical skills and accomplishments make him so proud of himself as well. We love this place.
We are so thankful for everyone at Whispering Manes. My son loves to spend time riding and learning horsemanship. Therapeutic riding at Whispering Manes has helped us build social skills, as well as executive functioning and motor skills.
I used to volunteer at this center and it truly is wonderful to see the progress the kids make through equestrian therapy. I highly recommend!
This was my son’s first year at the camp at Whispering Manes and it was nothing less than AMAZING. My son enjoyed everything about this camp. He loves the horses, the instructor, the volunteers who are extremely kind, and Robin who was extremely patient and understanding.
I look forward to taking my son to horse back riding lessons and future camps.
We are very grateful for the attention and care our son received.
My daughter has been going to Whispering Manes Summer camp for the last 3 years. She absolutely loves it and looks forward to going every summer. Robin Bramson and volunteers do an incredible job of combining therapy and teaching horse skills all while having fun doing fun summer activities. The grounds are impeccable.What summer memories never to forget! I truly appreciate Robin and Whispering Manes
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This was my daughter's 2nd year attending WMTCSC. She ABSOLUTELY loves the camp! It has a very well balanced schedule consisting of riding, grooming, art, yoga & water fun activities. It provides education,encourages Independence and improves social skills. Robin(Camp Director) is awesome. She is tentative to all of campers needs and parent's concerns. Although we live on the Broward county line we look forward to taking our daughter to the WMTC summer camp
Our experience at Whispering Manes has been amazing! My son just finished therapeutic riding camp and absolutely loved it! He couldn't wait to get to camp each morning. Not only does he love riding and taking care of the horses, but riding helps so much with his coordination, balance and confidence. We will definitely be continuing on with riding lessons. We are so thankful for Robin, the volunteers and everyone at Whispering Manes!
We are so blessed to have discovered and experienced Whispering Manes this summer. This program is a hidden gem that my son is now obsessed with is and so is this Mama. For all of his life my son has spend his afternoons in traditional therapies and summers in camps that the time was spent reinforcing academics and more of the traditional therapies. In the most recent years the struggle has been real and the motivation for these therapies are non existent, until now. Meeting Robyn and this amazing program has opened so many doors and it has created a new fire and drive in my sons heart.
To many on the outside it may seem like its just all about horseback riding, but if you dig deep you know its so much more. While my son is riding the horses he is building and strengthening core muscles and working on his balance. Then guiding the horses left or right, he is being forced to use his coordination and focusing on balancing some more. In addition, he is asked to walk the ponies around obstacle courses, which while focusing on leading, he himself is forced to conquer the course himself having to use his hand-eye and motor coordination. A lot of gross motors skills are reinforced, just like in PT.
But wait, that's not all, It gets better. Robyn's creativity and program are so special. She develops games and missions that help the kids develop team building, communication skills, along with reinforcing fine motor and problem solving skills. A few of my favorite are hearing about the search for legos in a haystack, finding their shoes blindfolded with the help of their team members and having to put them on blindfolded. These are just a few or the many fun and nurturing games that the kids truly enjoy. All this reminds me of a little OT and ST, just with some sparkle.
And as in every summer camp there is arts and crafts and water days. However, it didn't matter what day it was because my son always had a smile on his face and was ready to go back everyday!!! Mission Accomplished!!!
Last but not least this program incorporates a safe environment with the small ratios and caring staff.
Thank you Robyn for this special gift that you share with our kids. We will be back!!!
Our son enjoyed very much camp at the whispering manes. Great staff; sweet and patient volunteers and fun activities ( scavenger hunts, arts, yoga, water play) He loved riding, brushing and painting the horses. The daily horse riding class is excellent, the instructor works on body balance, slow trout , obstacle courses and posture. The facility has a clean and peaceful environment. We highly recommend it.
This organization is amazing. I volunteer here and from my view, kids are able to learn and develop. It is a wonderful experience and I know that Whispering Manes is the best place to volunteer at and the best place for kids to learn.
Whispering Mane is a peaceful and welcoming place. I have been riding, Honey, at the facility for last three months to help reduce muscular pain and to improve my flexibility. The instructions have increased my muscular strength and sense of balance while building my
confidence in riding even with some physical limitations. My instructor Robin, is very patient, knowledgeable and takes great care in my safety and comfort level. I look forward to my weekly lessons and recommend Whispering Mane to those who would like to improve their quality of life.
Our granddaughter Allison went to the summer program for two weeks because the other weeks were filled up. This time she took the theraputic riding course where she renewed some friendships from the prior summer program. She was very sad when summer camp was over and was really excited to start back in the fall. In addition to learning riding skills, she had a chance to develop social skills and new friendships. The staff, volunteers and horses are outstanding. Allison really appreciated the time Robin spent with her and looked forward to continuing to learn from Robin and now Sarah. Really looking forward to the summer program this year!
Whisperingn Manes is such an amazing place. We have seen such an improvement in my son's fine and gross motor skills. We also notice his confidence is improved every time he rides and learns a new skill. This is a great place for therapeutic riding!
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Professional and caring staff, beautiful facility, wonderful horses! Robin and her team are excellent. My son has Down syndrome and he is 7. He has been riding for a year with Whispering Manes and I have seen positive change in him since he began. Not only has he improved his physical strength (he has low muscle tone), but I have seen him mature as he has learned to control his horse and care for him. I highly recommend this place!
My son had a stroke in utero, causing him to have CP & Hemiplegia. Ever since starting at Whispering Manes his gait & confidence have improved tremendously. Robin is a fantastic teacher, not only with riding and caring for the horses but in imparting fun facts that will surely be remembered. I'm sorry I never started hippotherapy sooner! For anyone who has special needs, looking for a positive emotional & physical experience this is it!!
I'm training to be a therapeutic riding instructor and the people here have been more then helpful. They truly push me to be the best that I can be and are so encouraging. The riders and volunteers that come here have told me many times that they love being here and so do I. The horses are wonderful to work with and know their jobs. It's been a blessing to be here especially since it's not a long drive.
My sister has been coming to this center for a few months now and she couldn't be happier. She's more confident in her everyday life, she's more motivated & always looks forward to ever next lesson, thanks to Whispering manes!
Great experience for the kids. My younger brother has been riding for the past two years and he loves it. It has been a wonderful learning experience for the whole family and we see the progress with him.
This is an amazing place to volunteer. There are so many opportunities that you can learn from, as well as, experience the satisfaction of bringing joy to the children. I highly recommend Whispering Manes for your volunteer time and charitable giving.
As special needs teacher, coming here with my students for the horse therapy is a great experience, they have fun and at the same time therapy helps them in many ways.
Whispering Manes is an amazing organization. It is beautiful, clean, and well run. My daughter and I have both volunteered there, and plan to continue. The animals are very healthy and well-taken care of. We need more places like this!
My Amazing Autistic boy has blossomed so much because this amazing place. The staff the horses and the environment is full of positive energy and love that this boy looks forward to his classes as much as he does his Disney trips.
This organization has helped my daughter so much, the staff are very professional and safety minded. My daughter is always asking to come back, both for lessons and camp. I highly recommend this organization.
Whispering Manes is amazing! My daughter has always struggled at summer camps but at Whispering Manes she was accepted and nurtured. Everyone receives individualized attention and they also participate in group activities too. Robin is fantastic and you can tell she cares about each and every camper. My daughter liked it so much we will be signing her up for lessons in the fall and she will definitely be a repeat camper!
I began volunteering here a year ago, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. This organization far exceeds all expectations. The phenomenal women who run this amazing nonprofit go above and beyond to help each individual in need succeed here. The special needs children and adults are treated with such love and respect and are able to truly thrive with this program in various areas. This is by far one of the most beneficial, fulfilling and awe inspiring nonprofits I've had the honor and pleasure to volunteer for.
Our son has been participating in this therapeutic riding program for over 5 years. He loves the horses and his attention span and coordination have improved. The riding has also improved his core strength.. The program is very well run and the facility is beautiful.
My son has been a part of this program for about 4 years and it has been wonderful! It has helped him so much with his balance, strengthening his torso and abdomen. He loves coming to his classes with Miss Robin. The staff at Whispering Manes are always nice and caring to all the children and families. This experience has been a blessing, we are grateful and thankful for what they do.
The instructors at Whispering Manes are superb, very knowledgeable and patient. The stable is beautiful and the horses are well taken care of. My son is in the autism spectrum and these are the only therapy sessions he enjoys. The riding lessons truly make him happy.
He has learned so much from Charmaine who is a gift to our lives. Along with physical benefits of riding, I have seen psychological benefits in improved self steam and lower anxiety levels.
This is a wonderful place. Thank you so much for everything you do!
After much loss due to chronic illness/pain, Whispering Manes has offered the opportunity for my world to grow again in a a meaningful way. It is a therapeutic experience in so many ways, from the quiet sound of birds and smell of hay when I step out of my car, to the therapeutic interaction with horses, the physically rehabilitative aspect of riding, and the motivation to leave the house to learn about something I never would have previously dreamed of.
This has also offered me a positive way to share my illness with others in my life - when I held a crowdfunding fundraiser to pay for lessons, it offered the chance for others to positively support and share in my efforts towards improving well-being & quality of life.
I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to learn and volunteer with a non-profit whose staff is understanding of the challenges I face.
the staff is amazing, he center is gorgeous and I have seen great improvement in my son. I highly recommend! My child and I both look forward to each session.
I am a volunteer at whispering Manes and I love it. The Facilities are brand new and very clean. The participants, staff and other volunteers are also very friendly and a blast to work with. They do great work with the participants and I have seen great improvements within a couple lessons of starting. I recommend whispering manes to anyone who wants to volunteer or for anyone who's child has a disability and is looking for a positive experience in animal therapy.
I have been riding here for 9 months and I am happy with my experience. The facilities are very clean, handicap accessible, and the staff is extremely helpful and kind. At first I was frightened of horseback riding due to my condition (spinal cord injury) but with the right guidance and motivation from the instructor I am becoming not only more comfortable, but stronger as a rider. I have been feeling positive physical changes (better range of motion and release) ever since I started and am looking forward to my future progress with Whispering Manes.
Whispering Manes is a wonderful place where the kids feel safe while learning to interact with the horses at the same time letting all tensions go away. My daughter knows everything about the horses, the barn, the property, the feeding schedule and the horses personalities while learning to shine and lose all of her shyness. Whispering Manes is a hidden gem in Miami and the kids are so blessed to be able to spend time there. The barn and the facilities are so clean and well-maintained you almost forget you are in a barn. I highly recommend Whispering Manes and can't wait for my daughter to return for riding lessons with Honey, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Ben. The horses have patience of angels as well as all of the staff and volunteers. So blessed to find you, Bravo Robin!!
I came to Whispering Manes about 4 years ago as a high school sophomore to complete my required community service hours. Of course, being the horse lover that I am, I wanted to dedicate my time to an equine related non-profit. In the beginning, I guess you could say I was ignorant, I didn't know too much about equine therapy or how it benefitted the individuals who partake in it. I volunteered for Whispering manes for 3 years straight and the kids that I first met at the very beginning of the program are not the same today. They are so much more confident, kids who were timid and wouldn't say, but a few words now sing along in class and have conversations with their side-walkers during the lesson. I have seen the magnificent and positive outcome of therapeutic riding. Everyone in the Whispering Manes family are wonderful people, the horses too of course, and I absolutely love them all.
I volunteer at Whispering Manes and absolutely love being around the children as well as the horses. The instructor Robin does such an awesome job coaching the children and designing lessons suitable to their individual needs. The facility itself is very clean and the horses are also taken care of very well. Florida is lucky to have a place like Whispering Manes, it is so nice to see the children smiling when they ride the horses!
This is a great place my daughther loves it! from the people who works here to the friendly horses and awesome environment.
camila entered in the program 2 years ago and she has gained confidence and muscle strength. This place is a blessing.
As the director of the Friendship Circle, I was thrilled when our organization had the opportunity to offer riding lessons to the children & teens with special needs. Parents were excited about this ...and sign up was on a first come first serve basis. Within 11 minutes of posting the opportunity, we were full! The participants loved it! Robin is absolutely wonderful! I hope we will have the opportunity to offer riding lessons to our participants again!
Whispering Manes has a great program for children. A lot of them have started there since they were little and we've seen them grow and get better. They love being there and as a volunteer myself, I enjoy working with them and the animals as well!
We love Whipering Manes! Our oldest son who has Autism rides there every week and he always come back so happy every time. Riding helping so much... The staff are always so helpful and loving.
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Whispering Manes is a wonderful and most generous nonprofit organization. My son Justin (with autism) had been fortunate enough to be part of the program for overt 5 years now. We could not be happier with the results and the improvement my son has had since he began hippo therapy. We are forever grateful!
My wonderful experience was watching my son wake up so happy to go to summer camp at Whispering Manes. My son is visual impaired and loves to be with the horses. He wished to be there longer. He enjoyed caring for the horses and riding them as well.
Robin is great with the kids and very patient.
As an occupational therapy student I have had the opportunity to volunteer at this facility for a couple of weeks, and it has been a wonderful experience. The people are very caring, friendly, welcoming and knowledgable. It is not just a wonderful place to volunteer, but also a great place for people of all ages with special needs. It is truly a great and unique experience for each person who attends and volunteers. Overall, I would highly recommend it.
As an occupational therapy student, I have had the pleasure of volunteering at Whispering Manes. The facility is beautiful, the staff is wonderful and caring, and the therapeutic riding program offered is great! During my time at the facility, I have learned so much and gained such valuable experience. Overall, Whispering Manes is unique and truly special!
Marc has some challenging Behaviours but Robin tells me "do not worry Silvia, this is what we expect, this is what we do this is what we are "
As a mother of a son with Autism finding persons with Robin's attitude"it gets better" is finding a treasure.
On top now they will be moving to a new location bigger and better :)
I love animals and this program allows me to interact with them. I've learned alot about taking care of horses such as leading and grooming them. My favorite part of the day is the end where I get to give the horses treats and graze them. This program also helps me personally as part of my treatment to re-integrate with society as I can interact with people and horses in a low stress environment.
I should also mention that I'm helping the kids with developmental difficulties learn a new skill and also interact with people and animals. Knowing these kids are being helped brings alot of satisfaction.
I have been volunteering for whispering manes for a year now and I can't think of a better place to volunteer. When I first started, I had no knowledge of horses. Little by little the staff and other volunteers began teaching me the basics of horses and horse care. I can now tack up a horse and get it ready for the riders.
The additional benefit of collaborating with the lessons is very special. We volunteers get to interact with the riders and get to know them. By the second or third week of working with the riders, seeing them get out of the cars waving and smiling, excited to begin class is the most rewarding feeling. There is a place for every volunteer in this organization. You soon realize you become part of an amazing family supporting a great cause.
Our son, who has Down syndrome, is now 13 years old and has been participating in Therapeutic Riding at Whispering manes for over 3 years. He loves the horses and always looks forward to riding. The staff is excellent and very caring.
Over the past two years I have become more and more involved with Whispering Manes. Their programs of providing Therapeutic Riding programs for children and adults with special needs along with US Veterans with PTSD is amazing. The connection between the wellness of the body and spirit to that of human to equine interaction is extremely successful and I would recommend this program to anyone with these specific needs.
As a ten year veteran working with both children and adults with Autism, I was very impressed at the manner in which Whispering Manes interacted with our students. The staff was very polite, patient and knowledgeable. Every activity was well planned, engaging and fun for all of our students. The facilities were clean and very convenient to meet our needs. If you haven't seen their new top of the line facility then you are missing out. I would recommend Whispering Manes to anyone who interested in looking for a therapeutic center.
Guillermo Queris
Carrie Brazer Center for Autism
I volunteer at least weekly at Whispering Manes. It's a great program with talented staff and a well appointed, modern facility. The program participants, both children and adults, truly enjoy their time at the barn.
Whispering Manes is an exceptional facility. The therapeutic riding center provides a comfortable place for people with special needs to grow and succeed. The staff is passionate about what they do and they are dedicated to improving the lives of everyone that steps onto their property. I recommend Whispering Manes to anyone who is looking for a place to improve the mental, kinesthetic/physical, visual, emotional and communicative aspects of their or their loved ones disability.
I am a horse lover and it is amazing to see the therapeutic results of the bond created between the horse and the challenged rider through the Whispering Manes programs. They have great programs for riders challenged in so many ways. The therapy is very specialized and requires tremendous effort and dedication by the staff and volunteers at Whispering Manes and they give their all. Kudos to their professionalism and hard work!
Every week, I look forward to seeing Jake at Whispering Manes. He is such a sweet horse! I am unable to ride Jake, but each time I visit the barn I tenderly groom him. I brush him with the rubber curry comb and bristle body brush, bathe him and comb his mane and tail , and then massage his aching joints . Jake waits patiently at the cross ties for me to finish my routine and then the grand finale is giving him a treat which I buy for him out of my own pocket. Just this simple act of caring for an animal brings me such a sense of peace- at least for the hour that I am there. Not only because of the good deed I am doing but because animals like Jake offer you unconditional love, beauty and wisdom that can only come from animals. In his own way Jake thanks me for my small act of love each week, making me feel appreciated and noticed when I usually feel marginalized and /or ignored.
Whispering Manes is a beautiful facility with well-trained horses and excellent staff, especially Exec. Dir. Erin and Program Dir. Robin. It offers a safe, caring, well-structured riding program providing a wonderful experience for riders and volunteers. It enables the riders to experience the thrill of learning to ride while also receiving the physical therapeutic benefits of movement and coordination that horseback riding provides. As a volunteer, the opportunity to experience the joy of helping someone less fortunate than myself achieve his or her dream is priceless.
I have been volunteering at Whispering Manes for a few months now and it has been such an inspiring and humbling experience. It is such a fun and kind environment and the stuff is very friendly and knowledgable. I love volunteering here and look forward to remaining part of this family!
I've been volunteering at Whispering Manes for about 6 months as an exercise rider. I absolutely love it here! The horses are so well cared for, and the staff are so great with the riders. Robin is so patient with all of the students and you can see the joy on their faces as soon as they get on these horses. I love being a volunteer and I'm so glad I found this place so I can be a part of the work they do!
Whispering Manes is an absolutely beautiful location with an amazing staff that is so dedicated to providing creative programing to children in adults wit special needs. I have seems first hand the healing power of the dedicated therapy horses. It's a very special place.
Hi everyone!
I was working as a volunteer at the program and it was such a great experience! The people are having a lot of knowledge about what they are doing and it was amazing to see the children's progress during my stay.
I really enjoyed my time at whispering manes and I learned a lot about therapeutic riding. I'm wishing them all the best for the future and I hope I can come back one day! :)
Whispering Manes is wonderful! I started taking my son Cody there about 6 months ago. Robin is fantastic with him. He has auditory neuropathy and has some challenges hearing and communicating. Since going there he has really gained confidence and a deep love of the horses. He loves going and I feel it has really beneficial to his development.
Whispering Manes it's a wonderful place not only for those who attend as students but also for us volunteers. I started volunteering at Whispering Manes since it first stated. Erin Bauer, its founder, is one of the kindest people you will ever meet, she is caring and very professional as well as Robin Bramson the Program Director are people that truly care and are committed to the highest level of service of any non-profit organization I've been involved with. Without leaving behind Mr. Edel Cuesta, the Head Groom, who has an innate horse sense and cares for all students and horses with the same passion and professionalism expected of a top rated organization. I love volunteering at Whispering Manes and wish had more time to help out more often. Mando de Armas, a grateful Volunteer.
I work as a volunteer on weekends since I can’t be there to help during the work week. It is very satisfying to work with the horses that give such joy to the children and adults that are part of the program.
My son's name is Augie, he is 21 years old, and he is autistic. He has been riding for two years and he loves it! Thanks to the passion, dedication and patience of his wonderful instructor, Robin, he has come a long ways to almost riding on his own. He loves horses and is very comfortable near them. I cannot even say that for myself!! He rides, follows instructions, brushes the horse, takes off the saddle and feeds the horse carrots. While riding his posture is perfect and he has developed really good balance and rhythm. He usually rides Jake and Nutmeg, sometimes Honey. I only wish I had started him at a younger age. So my advice is: do not delay on getting started with this program. It is amazing what it will do for you and your family.
Ani, Augie's mom
Hi my name is Jenn and I volunteer at Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center. I was so fortunate to come across this organization because it has been one of the most rewarding experiences that continues to teach me more about children and adults with disabilities and how riding horses improves their social and motor capabilities. I have been a volunteer for over 6 months and see myself continuing to work closely with this organization because it has benefited so many children and adults throughout the years. I really do appreciate all the organization has done, and I want to continue giving back to them.
Hi I'm Pastor Jones, I am a Vet (US Air Force), I had a strock 2 year ago and this program help to be postive about all things.
My son has been riding at Whispering Manes for a few years now. He loves the horses! He will kiss and hugg them. The stables are wonderful. It's always calm and peaceful. He has made slow, but good progress. He now likes to trot, his balance and coordination have improved, and he is always very vocal when riding. It builds confidence and self-esteem. As a volunteer also, I have seem positive changes in children which can only enrich their lives.
To have the opportunity to ride and interact with these beautiful horses is a gift. My son is very lucky to have the opportunity to be part of this wonderful program, with such dedicated and caring staff.
Thank you!
I am a Registered Nurse, Reiki Master and I have had the absolute privilege of working with the Horses to help support and sustain their health and well-being. The Horses do amazing work for so many and I am humbled at being able to give back to them through Reiki. Robin and Erin have been wonderful in trusting me with their babies and have been an absolute pleasure to work with! Whispering Manes is a professional and loving place. Thank you for the work that you do and for positively touching so many lives!
I am a Special Education teacher and teach students with Autism at Easter Seals South Florida...We had a PRIVILIGE of being granted for 10 sessions of horse back riding therapy for my students (10 Kids )last year from March to June-2013.
The experience was AMAZING!!! It was incredible to see the progress of my students from the first day of session to the last session. Some of them felt so comfortable with the horses and the place, I looked like they knew the place already. While others went from refusing to even touch the horse up to the point that they can't wait to put the hamlet on and ride the horse. Until today they still asking me for "Honey" and "Cochis" .
The staff from Whispering Manes and the team of therapist were incredible patience and well prepare for my students, they were very warm and flexible with them. We hope to have this FANTASTIC experience again.
I am an equine veterinarian with a practice limited to equine dentistry. I have served the equine dental needs of the Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center for 2 years. The horses are not only kept well but the attention to detail for their care is 5 star. The horses are integral to the success of this non-profit and that shows in each horse's personality and willingness to perform their duties. In short, the horses are happy. From that perspective, the Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center deserves kudos as an outstanding non-profit organization.
My daughter Aisha has been going to Whispering Manes for a few weeks already. The first time day she went she was kind of afraid of the horses big theeth and was afraid they would bite. I suppose that for a special needs child a horse is quite big and overwhelming, but on her second visit, with the help of the staff Aisha got to brush Spirit, a very gentle horse, and from there she went on to ride Honey. I have nothing but praise for Robin and her staff, they make sure of Aisha's needs and security are always met. Robin is always making sure that Aisha's posture, balance, and of course, enjoyment are in check. For me, seeing my special needs child having fun while receiving so much needed therapy is a blessing. Aisha has a very special bond with the horses, she is always talking about Honey and now Cochise, and showing her horseback riding pictures. I can honestly say that for my daughter Aisha, Whispering Manes and horseback riding have become the highlight of her week.
My daughter, Alyssa, has been riding with Whispering Manes for almost one year now and she absolutely loves it. Robin and her volunteer team are amazing! They make sure that safety is priority and I completely trust them with my daughter. The horses are especially gentle and calm and the ranch is very well manicured and comfortable. Alyssa asks every day to go see Honey, the horse she usually rides. It has improved her posture, and her core muscle strength greatly. Robin also incorporates speech and cognitive skills in her lessons with the kids so it becomes an experience for the "whole child". I highly recommend Whispering Manes to other families who have children with disabilities! We are so grateful to have found such a wonderful place.
They provide amazing service to our children. We are a school of children with special needs. They are always professional and caring!
Whispering Manes has been on my radar since inception. Robin Bramson is a friend of mine and I have worked with her closely for many years as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor at another facility. She is passionate about making the Whispering Manes one of the Premiers Centers in this area. Whispering Manes is closely monitored and has an amazing team with amazing people who know what they are doing for the disabled community. It's a beautiful property, run by dedicated people who want to establish the best facility to help make lives better.
Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center is an outstanding nonprofit organization. It is definitely deserving of recognition. It greatly helps disabled children and veterans to improve their physical, emotional, and social skills. People with disabilities face many challenges. The experienced staff and volunteers genuinely care about helping each and every participant to reach their full potential through the interaction with horses. The horses, as herd prey animals are naturally sensitive, intuitive and social.
As a volunteer, it has been inspirational for me to watch the participants interact and ride the horses, and to see how happy and confident they become. In addition to seeing the wonderful programs that Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center provides to people with disabilities, volunteering there has
also had a very meaningful and positive impact on my own well-being!
I am a Path Certified Instructor as well as a former President of a Non- Profit TB Horse Rescue. I began volunteering with Whispering Manes two years ago and I cannot say enough good things about this organization. The Staff is professional, the horses are impeccably groomed and well kept. The facility is a top - notch show quality stable. from the individual paddocks with shelter , to the felt footing in the rings, spectator seating and handicapped accessible facilities make this a five star Operation.It should be on your list as a premium facility that PATH can be proud of to use as a example to others.
I am a volunteer at Whispering Manes and although I am a full time student, I always make time to come to volunteer because it is such a great experience. Everything about my experience has been awesome -- from the fellow staff members and the facility, to each and every student that comes. All different types of kids come to the ranch and there is always something to do no matter what their abilities are. Activities can include grooming or spending time with the horses or riding the horses, but no matter what, everyone has fun and develops new skills. It is really a great place and everyone is happy to be there.
This organization is a natural fit for me as a volunteer. I love horses and ride English so I understand their language. I have a soft spot for children with disabilities as well as for our Veterans of which many still suffer from post traumatic stress. I was looking for a way to give back with my time and this was the perfect fit. It has been very rewarding to be a volunteer for Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center. I am amazed at the dramatic impact that it has had on its students which I have personally witnessed over the last year. I have seen children that rarely speak or communicate, come alive while interacting in this program. It is a special kind of service that all children/adults with disabilities should be able to experience.
I am a veteran teacher in the field of students with intellectual disabilities. I have been going weekly to Whispering Manes for over a year to take a 20 year old student to ride. From the first experience I had with this organization, they have been professional, knowledgeable, with lots of patience, love and care for their clients and horses. As a veteran Special Education teacher, I have learned from them and seen first hand what a client can grow from in his experiences there. I gave seen positive growth in his physical, emotional, social, intellectual and sensory areas. My student loves going to Whispering Manes to ride "Jake" or "Honey" and to spend time with Robin and Adel. The sessions always begin and end with a smile on his face. The most wonderful aspect I love of this experience, is the amount of skills which are worked on each and every session. A+++ for Whispering Manes! Thank You for coming into our community and giving our Special Needs community a great opportunity!
I have always wanted to volunteer my time to serve others, and when I found out I could do that with horses too, I was ecstatic. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Robin was welcoming and clearly stated her expectations. This place is full of beautiful souls (including 4 legged ones) and I am proud to be a part of a volunteer team that helps make a difference in childrens lives. It really has made a difference in mine as well. Thanks Whispering Manes for being super awesome. Love ya'll! xoxo!
I am so thankful to Whispering Manes for giving my son the opportunity to participate in their wonderful program. I wasn’t sure how my son, Oliver was going to react to being around horses, as a result of his allergies to dogs & cats, he is not accustomed to being around animals. I was immediately put at ease with the experience, patience, and warmth shown by the staff and volunteers of Whispering Manes, and an incredible connection was made between Oliver, the horse and his walkers.
It was quite a struggle at first, at least three helpers assisting Oliver, it was to say the least, a little tough but the staff lovely took the challenge! Something magical happened when his horse HONEY began to “Walk On”, Oliver’s face immediately lit up. Every time he rode a little longer and sat up a little taller. Towards the end of spring he was down to just one walker and enjoying the whole session! Now his excitement grows as we descend up the driveway to reach Whispering Manes Barns.
No other therapeutic recreation has sparked such a curiosity and eagerness to engage than his weekly sessions at Whispering Manes. We are very thankful for this wonderful gift Whispering Manes has given my son.