In 2005 Christy Henderson began dreaming of starting a therapeutic riding center in the Jackson, Mississippi area. She wanted to share the joy of horseback riding with people who had special physical or mental challenges. Christy joined the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) and began taking advantage of their great reference and educational materials. She also met the directors and staffs of therapeutic riding centers through regional conferences and workshops and visited many centers. Christy discovered just how special the people who work and volunteer in the therapeutic riding industry are. Everyone was willing to share their expertise and encourage Christy in her efforts.
Over the next 2 years, a RideABILITY Board of Directors was established, its non-profit status as a 501(c)(3) was approved and Christy completed her training as a NARHA certified therapeutic riding instructor. Also during this time, Ashley Harris of Harris Heights Farm generously offered RideABILITY the opportunity to operate on her farm, free of charge. Ashley allowed RideABILITY to build a 100 x 150 ft. fenced arena and a sturdy wheelchair mounting ramp at Harris Heights. RideABILITY conducted its first volunteer training session and began the first riding lessons with 4 riders in October 2007. Applications for new riders are currently accepted and additional volunteers are always needed as the program continues to grow.
Ashley Harris of Harris Heights Farm on Easter Lilly
The beautiful, rolling, green pastures of Harris Heights make it a wonderful setting for the RideABILITY students, family members and volunteers to enjoy.
The beautiful, rolling, green pastures of Harris Heights make it a wonderful setting for the RideABILITY students, family members and volunteers to enjoy.
The mounting ramp was built by volunteers Ronnie, Diane and Nicole Coleman. Riders and Volunteers love the ease of mounting – and the horses appreciate it too!
The arena is a fun place
to learn riding skills and to just have fun.
