Red River Riders Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Inc.

Red River Riders is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization providing physical and emotional benefits to disabled people through therapeutic horseback riding. Red River Riders was established in 1985. We started with 3 riders and one horse. We now serve 50-60 riders annually, with a volunteer base of 70-80 people. Our instructors are certified through PATH International, an international therapeutic riding organization, or Certified Horsemanship Assoc., an international horseback riding certification association.

Red River Riders helps people with disabilities regardless of age. Students learn basic riding skills while working on posture, muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination through games and exercises. Riding also exercises the mind by increasing self-esteem and improving attention span. Volunteers are needed to groom and saddle horses, then participate in class by leading or side-walking. Leaders are in charge of keeping the riding team safe and on task. Side-walkers work with the rider assisting them as needed when following the instructors directions. Classes are set up in six week sessions. Students ride once a week. Classes are one hour long.