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The Roanoke Valley Therapeutic Riding Program was established in 1991 and currently provides equine experiences to children and adolescents in the surrounding areas. We are located on 22 beautiful acres of property in Franklin County that we purchased in 2001 and became our permanent home in 2004.
Since 1991 we have grown into a NARHA certified, 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. We are located in Boones Mill, Virginia. RVTRP is a volunteer driven program. Numerous individuals and organizations provide funding and volunteer support.
Our board of directors is an eclectic group of individuals ranging in professions from physical/occupational therapists, accountants, special education teachers and of course equestrians.
RVTRP combines riders and horses in a unique mixture of physical therapy, education and fun. Most of our riders begin with non-mounted activities including grooming the horse, learning the different "horse parts" and the equine equipment. Our riders then progress to mount the trained therapeutic horses and participate in a workout designed by our physical and occupational therapists.
Our main program consists of therapeutic horseback riding lessons. Many of our children utilize walkers and wheelchairs. Some have speech difficulties. Others have sensory integrative dysfunction or learning difficulties. When riding a horse, many of their challenges fade away, as children are able to move and communicate in ways they have never done before.
We also provide a non-mounted, equine assisted "Anger Management" program for Franklin County juveniles. In its first year, this program has been funded through a grant and we hope to continue offering this valuable service to the community.
