Hestovin Stables Therapeutic Riding Center

Equestrian Facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan

(616) 228-41401217 E Paris Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546View on Yelp

About Hestovin Stables Therapeutic Riding Center

Hestovin Stables Therapeutic Riding Center operates out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, bringing the healing benefits of horses to a community that values accessible and inclusive programming. As a non-profit organization, the center is driven by a mission that goes well beyond recreational riding. Grand Rapids is Michigan's second-largest city, and the presence of a dedicated therapeutic riding center here fills a genuine gap in services for people with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. The work they do sits at the intersection of horsemanship and human wellbeing.

Services

Community Service/Non-Profit
Horseback Riding

Services & Process

Therapeutic horseback riding at Hestovin Stables is designed for individuals who benefit from equine-assisted activities as part of their broader care or personal development. Sessions are typically adapted to each participant's needs, with trained volunteers and certified instructors guiding every ride. The center's non-profit structure means it often works with schools, social service organizations, and healthcare referrals to connect people who might not otherwise access equestrian programs. Community outreach and education are also part of what they offer beyond the saddle.

Service Area

Hestovin Stables primarily serves the Grand Rapids metro area, including communities like Wyoming, Kentwood, Walker, and Grandville. They also work with individuals traveling from smaller surrounding towns across Kent County and neighboring areas. Given the specialized nature of therapeutic riding, families sometimes commute from as far as Muskegon or Holland to participate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is therapeutic horseback riding designed for?
It's designed for individuals with a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional, or developmental challenges. Common participants include those with autism, cerebral palsy, PTSD, and anxiety, though each program varies in who they serve.
Do participants need prior horse experience?
No experience is necessary. Therapeutic riding programs are built around the participant's comfort and goals, starting from the ground up if needed. Safety and trust come before anything else.
Is a doctor's referral required to participate?
Many therapeutic riding centers require a physician's approval before enrollment, especially for participants with significant physical or medical conditions. Contact the center directly to understand their specific intake requirements.
How is therapeutic riding different from regular horseback riding lessons?
Therapeutic riding uses the horse's movement to support physical, emotional, or cognitive goals and is guided by certified instructors trained in equine-assisted activities. It's not a recreational class, it's a purposeful, adapted experience.
Does the center offer programming for children with autism?
Equine-assisted activities are commonly used with children on the autism spectrum, and many therapeutic centers include this as part of their programming. Reach out to Hestovin directly to discuss your child's specific needs.
Is there financial assistance available for participants who can't afford the fees?
As a non-profit, Hestovin Stables may offer sliding scale fees, scholarships, or grant-funded spots for qualifying participants. It's worth asking about financial support during the intake process.

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