Adaptive Riding allows access and opportunity for those with disabilities to participate, and learn riding and horsemanship skills while building independence, responsibility and confidence. Plus, it’s fun! Riding contributes to cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of our clients. And provides additional health, educational, sport and recreational benefits.  

Stand with Shea supports adaptive riding by ensuring that our herd has the appropriate mix of horses available to take beginner riders to independent riders. It also helps train and retain certified instructors who teach and advance clients according to their abilities. 

Often clients will start in the therapy programs at The Shea Center, then transition into our adaptive riding programs.

Kids like Arthur gain the strength and balance in therapy that enables them to advance and learn riding skills.

“Arthur came to The Shea Center at age four with a diagnosis of autism.  His mother, Claudia, explains that at the time, Arthur was barely talking, very unsteady, and had weak core muscles. Over time, Arthur’s muscles have become much stronger, his speech has developed, and his coordination has improved to the point that he can run!” … Read more about Arthur’s story here.  

Because lessons at The Shea Center are subsidized, clients pay a discounted rate (~60%) off actual costs. Stand with Shea funds help keep adaptive riding programs affordable and available to more people.