Hearts, Body and Soul Therapeutic Riding

About Us

Hearts, Body and Soul's mission is to use the proven power of equine therapy to bring out the brilliance in physically and mentally challenged individuals. We will provide a "state of the art" facility to empower the heart, the body and the soul of all who come through our doors looking to enrich their lives and to reach their full potential.

The connection between horse and rider is powerful, as the individual develops a bond with their new equine friend profound healing is taking place. Anyone who has seen this transformation becomes a lifelong believer in equine therapy. In 2005, it was reported that six thousand people were on waiting lists to receive the therapeutic benefits horses offer according to North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, (NARHA). The numbers have grown into the tens of thousands.

We are the only facility designed to offer a fully integrated, multi-sensory approach which will help to assist in healing the "whole" person.

The obstacles faced by today's disabled individuals are daunting.The effect of human-animal bonding improves group and didactic interaction and increases responsiveness and adaptability. At Hearts, Body and Soul, we care deeply about the welfare of our participants. We will nurture them while engaging them in interesting, therapeutic, meaningful and useful activities.

The preferred method of equine training will be natural horsemanship. No bribes, no beating, no punishment, nothing but connection between the soul of the person who loves the horse and the soul of the horse. We will provide a quality and a safe home for the "throw away" horses and give them the respect and dignity they deserve and a purpose for life.

Our facility's goal is to unite disabled individuals, families, caregivers, and the community. Provide a fun and safe environment. Diminish physical therapy out of the doctors and hospital atmosphere, forging hope, and to have a personal and positive experience with their new equine friend.

Michael Richardson, a paraplegic and former NARHA board member, who helped develop their riding program, is a renowned horse trainer and clinician based at the Broken R Ranch in Hico Texas. He is also a sought after motivational speaker, conducting leadership and communication skills training to corporate groups around the country. Michael has generously agreed to be our Trainer in Residence, lending motivation and inspiration to this community.

Although therapeutic riding is not for everyone, there will always be a place at Hearts, Body and Soul to connect with the animals on an individual level.

We need your help to coninue to provide this valuable and much needed service. Special Education Department of Lake County, NARHA, and Broken R Ranch have pledged their support. Please become a volunteer or go to our donation page. Any time and amount would be greatly appreciated. 100% of your tax deductible donation goes directly to our program expenses.

We are a NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) member.

Hearts, Body and Soul, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.