Riding Instruction Designed for Education

Project R.I.D.E. Inc., a nonprofit institution, provides therapeutic recreational horseback riding instruction to over 440 children and adults with special needs. Through the dedication and support of the Elk Grove Unified School District and the Elk Grove and Sacramento communities, Project R.I.D.E. has grown from a program that began in 1979 serving 30 students at Jessie Baker School to serving 440 students from the greater metropolitan area.

Our goal is to improve physical, emotional and social functioning through participation in a highly structured and safe program. Riders’ interaction with carefully selected and trained horses improves their balance, posture, flexibility, sensory awareness and endurance in addition to increasing confidence, self-esteem, self-discipline, motivation, attention span and integration with non-disabled peers.

There is a magic that occurs between horse and rider, forming a very strong bond, especially when the rider is in any way limited. For people with impaired mobility, horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves their bodies in a manner similar to a human walking gait. Riders with learning or mental disabilities are motivated by the interaction with their horses to concentrate more and develop patience and discipline. People with psychological, physical or emotional challenges have the special opportunity to form unconditional, meaningful relationships with the volunteers, their peers and the horses. As the benefits of horseback riding are recognized, our extensive waiting list continues to grow, with new students waiting up to several years for an opening.

Project R.I.D.E. Inc. is fully accredited by PATH International, a non-profit organization founded in 1969 which is dedicated to supporting horseback riding in a safe, educational and enjoyable manner for disabled persons. PATH International offers training seminars, provides strict standards of excellence and safety, and certifies programs and instructors to teach riding to people with special needs or disabilities. Project R.I.D.E. is a PATH International Premier Accredited institution, with our most recent certification in September 2007. We operate in a 34,000 square foot totally enclosed equestrian center in Elk Grove as well as a 52 acre ranch in Herald, where our horses rest and enjoy pasture time.

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

We depend upon community involvement for financial and volunteer support. Volunteers assist with the daily riding program, stable maintenance, horse transportation and feeding, office management, and fundraisers. Our volunteer Board of Directors administers our business and financial affairs. If you are seeking a rewarding and fun volunteer opportunity that allows you to work with children and animals, you have found it! At Project R.I.D.E., Inc. volunteers are the heart of our organization. It takes the support of hundreds of dedicated volunteers to make this program operate. Our volunteers come to us from all walks of life and include students, professionals and retired people. Although the majority of our volunteers are either Sidewalkers or Leaders, there are more ways you can help us.