Participants

 

River Valley Riders is dedicated to creating a supportive community where people with special needs connect with horses and experience life-changing benefits.  Our equine-assisted services include therapeutic horseback riding, carriage driving and hippotherapy. Our program helps participants gain self-confidence and self-esteem, build strength, improve balance and hand-eye coordination, while forming meaningful relationships.

 

The 2023 lesson season is completed. 

For more information about 2024 lessons, please email us or call 651-439-2558.

Due to safety concerns for the rider/driver and following PATH Intl. recommendations, the minimum age to participate is 4 years old.

 

 

RVR will not be providing individually-assigned helmets for each rider.  We will have a pool of helmets that will be shared by participants.  As an alternative, riders may purchase their own helmet.  All helmets are required to be ASTM/SEI approved for equestrian use and no more than 5 years old.  NO BIKE HELMETS.

Suggestions for purchasing personal helmets.

St. Croix Saddlery
310 Stillwater Road
Willernie, MN 55090
651-426-0831
www.stcroixsaddlery.com

Their experienced staff will help ensure correct style and sizing. The Ovation Schooler style is a popular helmet with a wide range of sizes and colors. $69.99 and up. St. Croix Saddlery will provide a 10% discount upon request (limit to 1 item per month).

Fleet Farm
In the Equine section of the store, Fleet Farm has a limited selection of Troxel helmets. We recommend the Spirit or the Rebel because they are adjustable for the best fit. $64.95-$83.95. Based on our experience, we suggest avoiding the Sport or Liberty models.
Before going to store to try on, watch this video to help in fitting: https://youtu.be/tAuhwPRNHL8
For more information: https://www.troxelhelmets.com/pages/helmet-fitting

Document when you purchase/first use the helmet as is can be used for 5 years. Without documentation of purchase/first use, the manufacture date of the helmet (on a label inside the helmet) will be used.

 

Scholarship Program

RVR offers partial scholarships in an effort to make equine-assisted services more affordable for participants who would benefit from the program.  Scholarships are based on financial need.  For more information and the Scholarship Application.