EquiFriends - a community-based nonprofit
EquiFriends is a non-profit, community-based human service center providing therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults with physical and non-physical disabilities. We offer four 10-week sessions through the year to improve the quality of life, health, and well-being for people with disabilities. Through therapeutic and enjoyable equine activities, riders learn horsemanship which stimulates physical, mental and emotional growth.
With safety a priority, EquiFriends' NARHA-certified instructors, registered therapists, specially trained horses and caring volunteers implement the following equine activities: early intervention hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, sport riding, competition, and facilitated mental health therapy. These activities give a sense of freedom and independence while enabling the participant to experience accomplishments, interact socially, and learn new skills in a pleasurable environment.
The uniqueness of our program lies on the back of the therapy horse. For it is there that the special rider can find the hope of a better existence, a spirit of freedom from impairments and a sense of “being able.” We have 11 therapy horses, which have been chosen for their calm disposition, rhythmic gait, training and experience. Horses are acquired by EquiFriends through outright donation or by an “on loan” agreement with the owners.
EquiFriends is a 501 (c ) (3) organization that depends on fundraisers, minimal tuition, contributions, grants and in-kind donations to operate. All donations are tax deductible. EquiFriends receives no State or Federal assistance. EquiFriends became a United Way Agency in 2004 with a $75,000 grant funded over three years. Volunteers are an essential part of the program as they assist in the direct delivery of therapeutic horseback riding classes, maintenance and fundraising.
EquiFriends Program Activities
The mission and purpose of EquiFriends is carried out in the program activities which, since 1990, have consistently included four, ten-week sessions where therapeutic horseback riding classes are offered five or six days per week year-round, depending on the scheduling needs of the students. In 1993 driving classes were added to the curriculum for individuals whose limitations made it too difficult to sit astride a horse. A specially built wheelchair-accessible cart was constructed and donated by local craftsmen for this purpose (not currently is use).
In August 1996 a day of mountain riding lessons for several students was piloted upon the invitation and encouragement of the Wenatchee National Forest Service. The pilot proved to be a very successful confidence builder for EquiFriends’ riders and became a part of the curriculum as an annual summer activity. The mountain trail lessons took place at the handicapped-accessible Chiwawa Horse Camp. In October, 1996, a vaulting class and a drill team were added to the curriculum as well as sports riding, competition and equine facilitated mental health therapy.
In 1990, the first class session served six riders. The summer session of 2003 served 121 students with disabilities, with several remaining on a waiting list.With support from the community, the program has been able to serve a gradual increase of students to accommodate the growing need and popularity for this unique and innovative therapy.
Presently, between 130 - 150 different students with disabilities, residents from Snohomish, King and Skagit Counties, ride or drive at EquiFriends. Each student receives 45 to 60 minutes of therapeutic instruction weekly from EquiFriends’ NARHA-certified instructors. The needs and goals for each student are individually assessed, monitored and evaluated by the instructor and/or the students’ personal therapist, doctor or caretaker. Each lesson is specifically designed by the instructor to address the appropriate needs and goals of each rider, often with collaboration of their doctor or therapist. Many riders have expressed their accomplishments in letters which EquiFriends will share upon request.
Approximately 200 volunteers actively assist the disabled riders in their lessons each week. Volunteers also maintain the facility and help produce the program fund raising events. Fourteen horses are utilized in the program at present.
Advance registration is required of students who ride and drive in the program. Prerequisite forms include a physicians’ referral, therapists’ assessment, hold harmless agreement, photo release and a student profile. Tuition is charged for each student and tuition assistance is awarded to up to 10% of each session’s enrollment according to the financial need of the applicants. Student enrollment is non-discriminatory as to race, religion, age, sex or disability. Presently, tuition fees cover approximately 25% of the actual cost of the program, therefore EquiFriends depends on fund raisers, contributions, grants and the generosity of volunteer staff which make it possible to keep tuition fees at a minimum.
Other Program Objectives
- Promote awareness, communication, and understanding between persons who are able-bodied and those who are disabled. As able-bodied volunteers assist disabled riders in classes, their involvement creates opportunities for understanding, education, communication, social interaction and friendships.
- Promote safety and education about horses. Volunteers and students learn safe procedures when handling horses and have the opportunity to learn valuable information about horsemanship.
- Provide an avenue for minor offenders to fulfill their community service hours.
- Provide opportunities for youth groups such as 4-H to become involved in their community in a safe and healthy environment.
- Provide a work place for youth in the job readiness programs. To promote a wholesome atmosphere for youth at risk.
- Offer workshops and seminars for staff, caregivers, volunteers, and students regarding disabilities, human services, and equine science.
- Develop collaboration and partnership with other human service organizations to further serve, enhance and address the needs of the community.
Read more about our history in our story.