We believe
We believe in creating opportunities for people of all abilities to build confidence, independence, connection and hope through the powerful partnership between people and horses.
Therapeutic services. Meaningful connections. Life-changing possibilities.
HorsePower is a nonprofit in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, that uses the influence of horses as a healing therapy to help individuals with different physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. We believe, and have witnessed, that horses have the power to change lives.
Through several forms of programming and therapies, we help our riders conquer their specific challenges. Everyday we observe amazing transformations. Tense legs become more fluid; cramped muscles start to relax, postures straighten, and children who have never spoken before become verbal. The joy horses bring to our clients is contagious and life-changing for everyone involved!
The Foundation of Our Work
At HorsePower, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to discover what they are capable of accomplishing. For each individual that enters our barn doors, that opportunity may look different. It might be learning to sit taller, taking an independent step, communicating a new word, developing confidence, finding connection in conversation or relationship or simply discovering that something they once thought was impossible is within reach.
The use of horses to support human health and well-being has a long history, but modern equine-assisted services have evolved into intentional, individualized programs that combine the unique qualities of the horse with the knowledge and expertise of trained professionals. Today, horses are partners in therapeutic, educational, recreational, and wellness experiences for people with a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional and developmental needs.
The horse is at the center of what we do, but the person is always at the center of why we do it.
A horse’s movement can challenge balance, strength, coordination and posture. Their responsiveness can encourage communication, focus and decision-making. Their size, presence and sensitivity invite us to slow down, pay attention, build trust and develop confidence. For some participants, simply being around a horse creates a connection and sense of accomplishment that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
At HorsePower, we don’t measure success only by whether someone can ride a horse. We measure it by the small moments that represent big victories. This may look like a child who stays engaged for an entire lesson or a veteran who reconnects with a sense of purpose or a family member who witnesses a new ability for the first time.
Our horses are carefully selected, trained and cared for because they are more than the animals who make our programs possible. They are partners in the work. Our staff, therapists, instructors, volunteers and horses come together to create an environment where all participants can grow and learn.
This is the foundation of our work, meeting people where they are, recognizing their potential, and creating opportunities for them to move forward, one ride at a time.
Our Philosophy
Our philosophy at HorsePower is that every unique perspective that we encounter helps to make us better people. Together with all of the strengths and weaknesses of each individual we are better able to face the challenges seen and unseen that every person must encounter in life. We are dedicated to creating a safe place for people to challenge themselves and learn from others. We are committed to uplifting all who come into contact with our organization, and remembering to meet every adversity with a sense of curiosity and hope. We believe that as providers we are only a companion on each individuals separate journey toward reaching their absolute potential as a person. Each of us at the barn feel tremendously blessed to be able to share the hardships and triumphs of their lives!
