EQUI-KIDS was founded in 1989 with one horse and four riders at a local stable. As the program grew, the organization relocated to two shared facilities where a handful of children were served during the fair weather months. For almost two decades the program and capacity needs grew and EQUI-KIDS was in need of its forever home.
In 2009, following the generous donation of 92 acres of land by a local developer and a $5.5 million capital campaign, a state-of-the-art facility was built and EQUI-KIDS moved to its current location.
Our facility was built specifically for equine-assisted activities and the individuals we serve, with every nook and cranny deliberately considered. From the calming, soothing color scheme to the interactive classroom with handicapped access to a teaching stall, no detail was overlooked. The entire facility is ADA compliant, offering handicapped parking, six handicap accessible restrooms, zero transition flooring, and decor lighting and paint colors designed by a regional specialist. Every detail incorporates sensory considerations, ensuring that those we serve have the greatest opportunity for reduced environmental distractions.
This environment has allowed the program to expand beyond our child-focused origin to offer a broader spectrum of services across a larger population base. In 2010, the newly expanded capabilities and increased capacity allowed EQUI-KIDS to add the EQUI-VETS program. Designed to serve veterans, EQUI-VETS is dedicated to serving those who have been impacted by their time serving our nation’s armed services. Due to the unique challenges faced by those leaving their military careers and readjusting to civilian life, serving transitioning veterans has been a priority of the EQUI-VETS program since its inception.