Co-founded in March 2012, HorsePower was established to offer creative, inspiring, and transformative therapeutic horseback riding lessons for children and adults with disabilities. In 2013, we proudly achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, enabling us to expand our reach and serve more participants in need of our programs.
Physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges no longer need to stand in the way of those with special needs who dream about getting into the saddle and connecting with horses. We strive to show our participants the horse's power to change us, inside and out! Individualized lesson programs include mounted and unmounted horsemanship, private and semi-private horseback riding instruction, meaningful interaction with smaller animals in our Critter Connections area, field trips, and camps. We also provide non-disabled riders the extra support they may desire as well as carefully trained, reliable horses and a safe, fun environment in which to learn.
Therapeutic horseback riding is a dynamic recreational activity in which individuals with special needs are able to overcome challenges and learn new skills. Communication, connection, and teamwork between the participant and their horse offers opportunities for physical, emotional, cognitive, sensory and social growth. Plus, the horse provides irresistible motivation which allows participants to achieve more in the saddle than other traditional sports and therapies.
Thanks to our founders, Carrie Capes and Justin Yahnig, and the dedicated HP team, our Therapeutic Riding Program has experienced significant growth. In addition to traditional riding lessons, we now offer Ranch Connections (a trauma-informed program for individuals affected by trauma), Critter Connections (a one-on-one program featuring smaller animals), and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)—all available through private and semi-private weekly lessons. Since our inception, our program has expanded from 4 participants to an impressive 72, with a growing waitlist.
Our organization is supported by a 12-member board of directors and a committed staff of 2 full-time and 8 part-time employees, which includes 6 PATH-certified instructors, 1 Natural Lifemanship Equine Professional, 1 Animal Assisted Activities Professional, 2 Equine Managers, and an Office Manager. Together, we are backed by an incredible volunteer team of over 100 passionate individuals. Our programs have successfully served participants across Kane, DeKalb, DuPage, Kendall, and Cook counties.
Since our establishment, we have built a strong foundation for a sustainable and flourishing program that will continue to serve countless participants in the years to come. We invite our generous donors to support us in this mission, helping us expand our reach and impact even further!
