Font Size:
Stepping Stones is a non-profit (501c3) organization that provides horseback riding and related activities to riders of all ages and abilities in Monroe County and the Downriver area. Stepping Stones involves many people working to help riders with physical, mental or emotional disabilities to develop their abilities. Each program is designed to teach horsemanship as well as riding skills and is adapted to fit the individual needs of each rider.
Lessons last for one hour each week and are held in an indoor riding arena. There are typically three to five riders in a class and multiple classes held each day. During lessons, students are taught basic riding skills and commands including walking, trotting, and turns. Games are also an important part of every lesson and help to reinforce the concepts being taught in class.
Volunteers assist riders during lessons by helping to guide and control the horse and by walking alongside the rider to help with balance and provide assistance when necessary. Depending on ability, some riders are able to ride completely independently while others are assisted by up to three volunteers. It is important to note that although there are volunteers available to assist riders, our students are taught to ride and not just taken for pony rides. As riders gain skill and confidence, the volunteers provide less and less assistance. The goal of the program is to have the students learn to ride as independently as possible.
Riding sessions are provided in the spring, summer and fall. Each session is six weeks long and classes meet once a week. In addition, some riders may participate in the Monroe County Fair or 4H State Fair during the summer.
