Our Impact
For nearly four decades, Saddle Up! has been transforming lives through the power of the horse.
350+
Riders Served Annually
30+
Therapy Horses
37
Years of Service
200+
Active Volunteers
Areas of Impact
Physical Development
- Improved muscle strength and tone
- Enhanced balance and coordination
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Better postural control and core strength
Emotional & Social
- Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
- Improved social skills and peer relationships
- Enhanced emotional regulation
- Reduced anxiety and stress
Cognitive & Communication
- Better focus and attention span
- Enhanced problem-solving skills
- Improved verbal and non-verbal communication
- Greater independence in daily activities
Stories of Transformation
Every rider has a unique journey. Here are just a few examples of the life-changing impact our programs provide.
"Before Saddle Up!, my daughter wouldn't make eye contact or speak to anyone outside our family. After just six months in the program, she walked up to her teacher and introduced herself. The transformation has been nothing short of miraculous."
— Parent of an Adaptive Riding participant
"As a physical therapist, I've seen remarkable gains with my patients at Saddle Up!. The horse's movement provides therapeutic input that we simply cannot replicate in a clinical setting. The results speak for themselves."
— Pediatric Physical Therapist
Strengthening Our Community
Saddle Up! serves as a vital resource for Middle Tennessee families, providing specialized therapeutic services that might otherwise be inaccessible or unaffordable. Our scholarship program ensures that no child is turned away due to financial constraints.
Beyond our direct services, we've created a community of volunteers, supporters, and advocates who are passionate about improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our volunteers contribute over 15,000 hours annually, making our programs possible.
We also serve as a training ground for future professionals in therapeutic riding, hosting practicum students and interns from local universities and providing continuing education for equine-assisted therapy practitioners.
