HORSEPOWER is a non-profit organization serving the Piedmont Triad community since 1995 and affiliated with the Piedmont Saddle Club since 1998. HORSEPOWER was established in response to the community's dire need for a therapeutic equestrian program. We are a premier North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) center and we are located just north of the Piedmont Triad International Airport. From the Piedmont Triad, we have between 85 to 125 individuals with special needs participating in our program weekly, from ages three and up. OUR MISSION is to promote and enhance the welfare of individuals with disabilities by providing a program of therapeutic, educational and recreational value, and further, to empower individuals who are mentally, physically and/or emotionally challenged through the use of horses, while providing therapeutic benefits in a safe and controlled atmosphere. What is Therapeutic Riding and what are the benefits? Therapeutic horseback riding helps people who are mentally and physically challenged achieve a quality of life that is improved, enhanced & enriched. Based on input from doctors, therapists, teachers, & parents, the student's individual goals are designed to complement ongoing therapy and education. The benefits of horseback riding are threefold: Physical - The three-dimensional motion of the horse provides the rider hip and back actions that simulates natural walking. Riding relaxes and strengthens muscles and improves body tone, posture, balance, joint mobility, and coordination. Emotional - Contact with horses and horsemanship training provides a non-competitive setting for learning new abilities, self-discipline, and improved concentration building self-confidence. Social - Horseback riding nurtures a positive self-image. Riders may, for the first time in their lives, experience some independence and sense of being part of the team. Why Horses? The educational and physical benefits from equestrian activities are numerous. Participants learn new skills and build confidence through opportunities to interact with animals and other individuals. Particularly beneficial for individuals with impaired mobility, horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the body in a similar manner to a human walking gait, thereby, increasing balance, muscle control and strength. HORSEPOWER Therapeutic Learning Center relies solely of the generosity of corporate citizens and individuals for support to continue this much-needed service in our community. All donations are tax deductible and used to extend invitations to more riders, to purchase equipment needed for the program, to help us provide funding for certifying our instructors, to offer scholarships or financial aid to those who cannot afford classes, and for the day-to-day care of our horses, buildings and grounds.