Kendall (a 15 year old autistic child) LOVES horses. I don't think there is anything that makes her happier than to be touching, smelling and riding a horse. The connection these animals have with special needs kids is just amazing. Lifestriders has provided her with Year-Round therapeutic riding, a major goal recently accomplished thanks to the generosity and dedication of many. We are so thankful to have this healing opportunity. It does take a Village. Thank you Lifestriders! 

- Kendall's Mom

RACHEL'S LIFESTRIDERS EXPERIENCE AS A VOLUNTEER

In the words of Beryl Markham, “A lovely horse is always an experience… It is an emotional experience of the kind that is spoiled by words.” My work with LifeStriders has forever impacted my life. Horses have always been a large part of my life. My uncle owns a large Clydesdale horse farm in Wisconsin. As a volunteer at LifeStriders, I have the opportunity to work with children and help them develop the same relationship I have with horses. It is absolutely amazing to watch the riders improve and develop each week. There truly is a sort of magic about working with horses. Sharon Ralls Lemon once said, “The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and fire.” LifeStriders has allowed me to re-experience the wonderful relationship between horse and rider, while helping disabled children have a brief escape from reality and experience the sense of freedom and strength woven in with the experience of riding a horse. LifeStriders helps its riders obtain a sense of freedom, power, and control. It is a nameless magic. My work with LifeStriders has been incredibly meaningful to me. I have had the opportunity to help our riders experience the freedom of riding and develop an everlasting relationship with horses. I would not change it for anything. 

- Rachel Keith

LifeStriders, in Delafield, has been beneficial to me in my efforts to overcome anxiety and depression. This program is sponsored and is free for Veterans. Natalie Hays, an instructor there, was instrumental in getting me started. LifeStriders offers working with horses in a highly structured environment with a priority on safety. Their methods helped me lessen my fear of horses while gaining my interest in getting close to these interesting animals. There is a real sense of accomplishment in learning to ride horses, as well as ground work with the horses. I would recommend this program to anyone!