November/December 2017
The Therapeutic and Recreational Riding Center Inc., is a Glenwood-based farm dedicated to helping children and young adults diagnosed with a wide range of physical, mental and emotional challenges including autism, Down syndrome, post-traumatic stress dis¬order and brain injury.
In September, the nonprofit organization opened a 4,100 square foot indoor sensory-sensitive therapy riding arena, increasing the number of riders it can serve by offering sessions in the winter and in inclement weather. The center, which currently has a waiting list, provides services to more than 200 people with various abilities.
The 55-acre working farm has two indoor and outdoor riding arenas, a ground therapy room, stabling for 50 horses and ponies, and riding trails.
In October 2016, the organization launched a successful $75,000 fund¬raising campaign. The Indianapolis-based Finish Line Youth Foundation gave a challenge grant of $75,000 in matching funds. Construction began in June for the $150,000 facility, which features a sprinkler system to minimize dust, heaters for year-round use and an outdoor mounting ramp for wheel¬chair access to the arena.