River Valley Riders' mission is to enrich the lives of children and adults with special needs by providing equine-assisted services. Our nonprofit organization creates a supportive environment where 100 individuals with disabilities connect with horses by participating in activities that are adapted to their physical, social and learning challenges. Our services benefit a wide range of participants including people with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delay and many other types of disabilities. Over 200 volunteers and 30 horses assist with our programs. Research demonstrates that therapeutic horseback riding can have many benefits. PHYSICAL: Because a horse's gait is similar to the human walk, this three-dimensional movement is transferred from the horse to the rider and helps to strengthen spine and pelvic muscles and improve posture and balance. Additional exercises during lessons help to improve coordination and increase flexibility. COGNITIVE: Lessons incorporate educational activities to improve hand-eye coordination and communication, as well as reading and math skills. EMOTIONAL: Riders develop self-confidence and self-esteem by accomplishing challenges as independently as possible. The instructors and volunteers always interact with the riders with patience and kindness while our horses offer unconditional acceptance.