Become a Rider

HOPE accepts riders of all abilities, focusing on those facing physical, cognitive or emotional challenges. Our one-hour lessons are combine mounted exercises with instruction on grooming and caring for our equine partners.

For safety reasons, the minimum age for our students is 5 years old, but there is no maximum age limit, as long as a physician deems it safe.

Individuals facing a wide variety of challenges can benefit from the therapeutic benefits of equine companionship and riding.

  • Autism

  • Down syndrome

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Brain injury

  • Learning or developmental delays

  • Hearing, vision, or speech impairment

  • Emotional or behavioral challenges

  • Muscular dystrophy

  • Orthopedic recovery

  • Sensory integration

  • Recovery from injury or illness

  • Emotional trauma such as divorce or loss of a loved one

  • (SPRING: April 22 to June 10‍ ) ‍

    EARLY SUMMER: June 17 to July 15 FULL

    LATE SUMMER: August 5 to August 29

    FALL: September 16 to October 14

  • Our instructors are certified through CHA to work with and provide lessons for many different special needs riders, but our program is available to anyone five and up who can safely participate in the program. Priority is given to riders with special needs.

  • Research supports the many benefits of equine therapy. Riders build pride, courage and independence; increased physical strength and flexibility; develop greater focus, concentration, engagement, and commitment abilities; advance social and relationship skills; and improve verbal and non-verbal communication abilities.

  • HOPE instructors, volunteers, and horses are trained to provide a safe, fun, and supportive experience. Our CHA Certified Instructors go through rigorous and ongoing safety training to provide enjoyable and creative ways to teach horsemanship skills. Our volunteers participate in classroom and hands-on training focused on the welfare of students and horses prior to assisting and working at HOPE. Our herd is experienced and trained to accommodate many different kinds of riders.

  • HOPE lessons are on Wednesdays at the Whidbey Island Fairgrounds in Langley. Students sign up for a series of lessons, from four to eight weeks, so that they are able to progress and develop their abilities. We occasionally hold other special classes and events; check our Calendar, Facebook and Instagram sites for current offerings.

  • Lessons are $65 each or $390 for a six-week session. We also have scholarships available based on financial need. Contact us for more information.

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