Nonprofit in Snohomish County Empowers Neurodiverse Children Through Equine-Assisted Life Skills Training

Empowering Strides is a nonprofit organization based in Snohomish that offers therapeutic horsemanship for neurodiverse children facing behavioral, emotional, and cognitive challenges. Founded in 2015 by Laura Gorcester, who has a deep understanding of the benefits horses can bring to individuals, the organization aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for children to learn and grow through interactions with horses.

The program currently has four gentle horses – Charlie, Pickles, Rhylee, and Snoopy – that are specifically trained to work with children with neurodiversity. These horses are housed at Triple L Ranch on Fales Road in Cathcart, where they live in a heated barn and have access to a covered arena for year-round lessons. The outdoor sand arena also provides a space for students to practice their horse skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.

One of the key aspects of Empowering Strides is the individualized approach to each lesson. Every session is tailored to meet the specific needs of the child, and it doesn’t always involve riding. This focus on therapeutic horsemanship, rather than just riding, allows children to develop a deeper connection with the horses and learn valuable life skills in the process.

One success story from the program is Dylan McCoy, a 21-year-old student who has been attending Empowering Strides for six years. Dylan’s mother, Jennifer McCoy, shared that before joining the program, Dylan had a habit of walking on his tip-toes. After just a few lessons, his toe-walking decreased significantly, showcasing the positive impact that working with horses can have on individuals with neurodiversity.

During a typical lesson at Empowering Strides, students start by preparing their horse for riding with the help of a volunteer. This process involves grooming and brushing the horse, which not only helps build a bond between the child and the animal but also teaches responsibility and care. Students like Lana Josal, a 10-year-old participant, find joy in grooming their horse and preparing for the lesson ahead.

Once the horse is ready, the student mounts with the assistance of volunteers and begins the lesson in the arena. Activities may include maneuvering over obstacles, practicing different riding techniques, or simply building confidence through interaction with the horse. Each lesson is designed to challenge and support the child in their personal growth journey.

At the end of the lesson, students like Lana often reward their horse with a treat, such as a carrot, as a sign of appreciation. These small gestures of kindness further strengthen the bond between the child and the horse, creating lasting memories and positive experiences for both.

Empowering Strides relies on donations and volunteers to continue providing valuable services to children in need. For more information on lessons, donations, or volunteering opportunities, visit their website at www.empoweringstrides.com. By supporting this program, you can help empower children with neurodiversity to overcome challenges, build confidence, and discover the transformative power of therapeutic horsemanship.