schedule a session

The Donkeys of the Heart is a 501(c)3 organization providing adaptive/recreational riding,  and educational opportunities to children (starting at four years old), adolescents with cognitive, mental, and behavioral challenges. 

All sessions are conducted by Sophie Rainer certified by Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) as Equine Specialist Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL). 

Only private lesson openings available for adaptive/recreational riding lessons:

• Weight limited to maximum 120 pounds, (tack included).
• Physical Benefits, 
• Improve balance, strength, range of motion,
• Improve coordination/ motor skills, 
• Improve  respiration,
• Sensory integration,
• Psychological Benefit,
• Sense of well-being,
• Improve self-confidence,
• Improve risk-management abilities,
• Emotional control, self-discipline.
• Social Benefits
• Friendship
• Interaction with others, animals, nature
• Improve social skills 
• Educational Benefits
• Proven to increase remedial reading, math, and science skills.
• Greater listening skills and focus
• Sequencing, patterning, motor planning skills
• Visual and spatial perception/differentiation
• Improve eye-hand coordination

This activities occurs “on the ground.” It’s used to help people of all ages. 

• EAL is an experiential approach using donkeys as co-facilitators. EAL provides opportunities to learn a variety of life skills. 
• EAL focuses on: 
• Behavioral regulation, 
• Social skills, 
• Communication,
• Problem solving,
• Cooperation, 
• Relationship skills,
• Decision making,
• Goal setting,
• Empowerment,
• Focus,
• Respect,
• Confidence,
• Self-esteem,