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New Hope was founded in 2012 by Dave and Sharla Kershen in order to foster a program encouraging the horse and human connection for the benefit of both horse and rider but specifically for those with disabilities. At New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy, we provide therapeutic horseback riding services for people with a variety of disabilities, special needs, and challenges. We strive to bring hope, healing and happiness to all those that participate in our programs, including our program for veterans and first responders, Horses Helping Heroes.
Therapeutic horseback riding transports individuals with special needs into a new, unexplored world, providing a sense of independence and freedom that can defy disabilities. When riding, individuals escape their physical and emotional limitations or challenges and embrace their abilities through working with a PATH or CHA certified instructor and a well-trained horse. For the physically, emotionally, and/or intellectually challenged individual, the experience offers a new view on life. In return, the horses not only have a delightful purpose, but receive the love of the trainers, volunteer handlers, and, most importantly, the riders themselves.
New Hope fosters an accepting community of not only like-minded and caring staff, but dedicated and well-trained volunteers. The results show in the faces of the riders as they conquer their unique challenges.
New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy provides therapeutic horseback riding services for people with a wide variety of disabilities. As a non-profit organization, New Hope relies heavily on the generosity of our donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners. Lesson fees only cover about 50% of the cost per ride, we depend on fundraising to cover the difference.
Funds raised for New Hope support our therapeutic riding programs including participant scholarships, equine wellness, facility maintenance, special events/camps, and any unexpected vet visits. Without these funds, New Hope would not be able to serve our community by providing weekly riding lessons to 40+ riders per week throughout the year. Whether through our adopt-a-horse program, fundraising events, or corporate giving, donations to New Hope are the foundation to fulfilling our organization’s mission.
Lessons are continuous starting in September and going through the end of June. There will be several natural breaks; Thanksgiving, the week of Christmas, during Chisholm Challenge in January, Easter weekend, and the day of our annual fundraisers in April and October. We will continue to notify participants and volunteers if inclement weather causes us to cancel a lesson.
Lessons will be held unless it is one of the dates listed below, or if we send notice that lessons are cancelled.
New Hope will be closed for lessons as follows:
© 2022 New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy.
