Equine Therapy for 20 Children with Special Needs

Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida (EATSF) was honored to host the Broward County Equestrian Special Olympic Games on our campus on January 25, 2025. This event, part of the larger Special Olympics movement, created lasting memories for both athletes and spectators. The Special Olympics promotes inclusion, physical activity, and personal development for individuals with special needs, and the equestrian games embody these principles.

EATSF proudly had 15 participants in the English Equitation and English Trail classes, where athletes compete without separation by gender or age. This inclusive approach encourages individuals of all abilities to challenge themselves, demonstrating the power of equestrian sports to unite people from diverse backgrounds. Special Olympics Equestrian Games offer adaptive equipment and support, ensuring every athlete, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations, can fully participate.

Participation in equestrian sports helps athletes improve coordination, balance, and motor skills while also boosting self-confidence and providing a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, the bond formed with horses offers emotional and psychological benefits. Beyond the competition itself, the equestrian events serve as a celebration of community, bringing together families, volunteers, and supporters to promote acceptance, understanding, and empowerment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

These events are integral to fostering inclusion and enhancing the quality of life for athletes. They create lasting memories, forge new friendships, and strengthen connections between participants, their families, and the broader community.

At the Horseshoe Hoedown, we celebrate the amazing journeys and accomplishments of our riders. Each participant brings their unique story, and we are proud to share the experiences of three incredible individuals who are a part of the Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida (EATSF) program.

Jamie and Fire
Jamie, 35, has Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder, and has been riding with EATSF since she was 8 years old. Over the past 27 years, equine therapy has become an essential part of her life, as well as her dad Jim's. Jim describes the program as a "lifesaver," not only for Jamie but for their whole family. Jim says that Jamie’s face lights up when she mounts her horse and that he knows how much she enjoys coming here every Saturday morning.

Jamie’s connection to horses has helped her in many ways. Through her riding sessions, Jamie's balance has significantly improved, and she’s developed greater awareness of her surroundings. One of the most remarkable changes has been in her confidence. Riding has helped Jamie grow both physically and emotionally, and her time at EATSF remains a source of happiness and progress for her.

Danny and Hallory
Danny, 24, has Autism Spectrum Disorder and began riding at EATSF in 2015. Riding has made a profound impact on Danny's ability to focus and become more independent. His mom, Alexis, shares that the program has provided him with a strong sense of belonging and feels that EATSF is Danny’s second home and feels that Danny belongs here at the barn.

Danny has also found a sense of community through his lessons. He enjoys spending time with the other riders in his group and the volunteers who assist him each week. For Danny, the barn is not just a place to ride, but a space where he can grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively. Alexis sees how his weekly visits to EATSF are an essential part of his routine, helping him to build both independence and connection with others.

Gracen and Star
Gracen, 7, began riding with EATSF in March after participating in the Unmounted Horsemanship program. Gracen has Autism Spectrum Disorder, and her journey with horses has been transformative. For Gracen, the physical and cognitive benefits of equine therapy have been evident from the start. Gracen rode Star, a horse painted as a skeleton to illustrate the horse’s 3-dimensional movement, which mirrors the way humans move.

Gracen’s mom, Lindsay, has noticed significant improvements in Gracen’s balance and spatial awareness since joining the program. Gracen has become more accountable and patient at school, skills that are essential for her daily life. One of Lindsay’s favorite memories is watching Gracen give Star a bath because Gracen really enjoyed helping her best friend Star get clean.

These inspiring riders represent the heart of our program, and we are so proud of their progress and achievements. Their stories highlight the powerful impact of equine-assisted therapy, not only on physical abilities but also on confidence, social skills, and emotional growth.