Hoofbeats Therapeutic Riding Center

Hoofbeats Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. was founded in December 1993 as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization to provide services in four main areas: Recreational Therapeutic Horseback Riding - Hoofbeats provides training in horsemanship and therapeutic horseback riding for people with disabilities (physical, mental, emotional, speech, and learning), for persons diagnosed with debilitating or life-threatening illnesses, and for a limited number of able-bodied children and adults. Lessons are designed for the client's specific needs and focus on skills and exercises to enhance the client's quality of life. Equestrian Competition - Hoofbeats hosts and attends equestrian competitions that promote a positive atmosphere to showcase the skills and efforts of disabled and able-bodied equestrians. Education - Hoofbeats promotes educational, academic, and life skills through joint riding and/or classroom projects with schools or rehabilitation centers. Outreach - Hoofbeats engages in outreach programs to inform the public about the benefits of therapeutic riding and the concerns of the disabled. In all activities, Hoofbeats strives to encourage positive mental attitudes, physical fitness, trust, self-confidence, and independence that will supplement other forms of therapy and/or healing. Hoofbeats operates according to the standards and guidelines of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH), of which it is an accredited premier operating center. Hoofbeats is also an active member of the Therapeutic Riding Association of Virginia (TRAV).