Sunrise EquiTherapy
“Turning small steps into confident strides!”

Our mission is to provide a therapeutic horseback riding program and equine-oriented activities to individuals of all ages with physical and cognitive disabilities.

History
Sunrise EquiTherapy, Inc. was founded in 1998 and is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization. Sunrise is affiliated with the North American for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) who sets our guidelines and standards plus certifies instructors.

Services
Our program serves children, adolescents and adults with special needs. Services are based on an individualized plan with goals/objectives. Lessons are held once a week from April through October at “The Ranch” by Eagle, NE owned by Lori and Mark Sass. Therapy horses are specially trained for their various jobs.

Disabilities Served
Sunrise EquiTherapy serves individuals with various diagnosis such as autism, ausbergers, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, visual/hearing impairments, mental retardation, schizophrenia, learning disabilities, as well as many other diagnosis.

Instructors/Volunteers
Our staff includes four instructors certified through NARHA and CHA (Certified Horseman’s Association) and several instructors in training. Healthcare professionals such as a physician’s assistant, registered nurse, mental health therapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and special education teachers assist as consultants and instructors.Trained volunteers assist the instructor in implementing the lessons as well as other duties.

How you can help “turn small steps into confident strides!”
Sunrise EquiTherapy depends on much needed donations, grants and sponsorships to continue our important mission. Riders’ fees, Day Camp fees, and visits to facilities by "Lucky Boy," our Delta Certified Miniature Horse, are subsidized by sponsors and additional financial support.

A Permanent Home for Sunrise
Through a generous donation we have secured 13 acres of land south of Eagle. Our plans have been completed and fund raising for our “Giant Strides Campaign” has begun. We must raise $700,000 to make our dream come true so we can continue to “turn small steps into confident strides!”

For more information about our program, or to make a gift or become a sponsor, contact: Julie Wood, M.Ed., Executive Director and NARHA Certified Instructor at 402-781-2781.