About Hearts:
MISSION STATEMENT
Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center employs the power of the horse to enhance the capabilities of children and adults with special needs in the Tri-County area.
HISTORY
Hearts was established in 1985 with two lesson horses and a handful of students. During the past 20+ years, we have provided approximately 40,000 lesson hours to over 2,200 members of our community. Today we have ten horses and serve 80 riders per week.
CREDENTIALS
Hearts is recognized by PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemandship) as a “premier center” -- the highest possible level of accreditation, demonstrating a superior level of adherence to national industry standards.
WHO WE SERVE
Approximately 125 clients per year ride at Hearts, ranging in age from 3-93, with disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, cancer, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, learning disabilities, Down syndrome, developmental delay, stroke, and fibromyalgia.
STAFF
In addition to our full time Executive Director and Program Director, we have a part-time staff of 7, including five instructors certified by PATH International.
SESSIONS
Hearts provides lessons year-round, five days per week (Tuesday through Saturday).
BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC RIDING
- Increased balance, strength and flexibility
- Increased ability to process information
- Independence and self-confidence
- Improved language and communication skills
- For movement-impaired disabilities, horseback riding mimics the human motion of walking in a way unreplicated by any equipment
- Increased quality of life -- it’s FUN!
REFERRALS
Students are referred by private physicians and therapists, Alpha Resource Center, California Children's Services, Hillside House, and word of mouth among others.
GROWING DEMAND
Our ridership has more than tripled over the past four years, growing from 25 to 85 riders per week, and we continue to add new classes.
BUDGET
Our annual budget is $350,000. Less than one third of our income comes from lesson fees; the rest is raised through private donations, grants, and fundraising.
VOLUNTEERS
Approximately 80 volunteers assist with lessons, facility maintenance, fundraising, and special events. The Hearts Board of Directors are volunteers as well.
COMMUNITY
High School volunteers are able to fulfill mandatory SB County School District community service requirements at Hearts. We also provide a summer camp experience for disabled and able-bodied youth.
P.O. Box 30662, Santa Barbara, CA 93130 - 805.964.1519
PREMIERE
ACCREDITED
CENTER
Trail riding up and down hills is good for developing core muscles and balance.
