High Hopes’ Community Mission Grows With More Ways for Horses to Help Humans

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High Hopes Therapeutic Riding engages people of all ages through programs like Shared Strides, which introduces older adults to barn life, gentle movement, and the connection between humans and horses. Photo courtesy of High Hopes.

OLD LYME–High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. has announced new and expanded initatives to meet the need for calm, connection and community with the help of horses.

The nonprofit organization in a press release said it is expanding its mission to serve people “across the lifespan, from children and teens to adults, seniors, and veterans.”

High Hopes has provided therapeutic riding experiences for more than a half century.

Marci Bender, Education and Impact Director at High Hopes and a certified instructor, said the offerings reflect a focus on how horses can help the community’s evolving needs. she explained, “These programs create safe, meaningful spaces for participants to learn, heal, and connect with themselves, others, and their equine partners.”

The organization said the “horse-human connection” can help someone with PTSD stay grounded in the present moment, or offer a calm equine companion to someone coping with anxiety or grief.

Among the new and expanded offerings are:

  • Women’s Wellness Initiative
    This program serves women across the community, including survivors of trauma and veterans, through equine-assisted services that build trust, reduce stress, and foster resilience.
  • Minis On The Move
    High Hopes’ miniature horses travel to schools, senior centers, and care facilities to bring joy and comfort to those who cannot visit the farm.
  • Shared Strides
    Designed for adults ages 60 and older, this program invites participants to experience the peaceful rhythm of barn life, gentle movement, and meaningful social connection.
  • Youth Empowerment Program
    Serving children and teens ages 9 to 16 who have experienced trauma, this program helps participants build confidence, emotional regulation, and self-esteem through hands-on equine activities.
  • Veterans’ Program
    Small group sessions provide a calm, judgment-free environment where veterans can reconnect, find grounding, and practice mindfulness with horses.
  • Individualized Wellness Program
    One-on-one sessions, led by a certified grief educator and recreation therapist, provide space to reflect, reset, and find healing through equine-facilitated learning.

High Hopes continues to offer its core therapeutic riding and horsemanship programs, the group said.

For more information, to volunteer or to register for programs, visit www.highhopestr.org or contact the Program Office at 860-434-1974.

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