Horses, often called emotional mirrors, possess a unique ability to sense human emotions and nonverbal cues. This innate quality creates a profound bond, making them a natural fit for providing therapy and comfort to humans. Agape Therapeutic Riding Resources harnesses this unique bond, providing weekly mounted horseback riding that contributes positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of people with special needs. By teaching horsemanship and riding skills, the organization, founded in 1986 by Cheryl Miller, has become the largest therapeutic riding center in Indiana, with two properties in Greenfield and Cicero.
“There are over 800 therapeutic writing centers in the United States, and we’re in the top 25 because of our impact and the size of our organization,” says Stephanie Amick, executive director. “We look forward to continuing to remain a leader in the industry, offering therapeutic riding and equine-assisted services to children and adults with disabilities, and now also including those with mental health challenges.”
Amick says Agape works with people with over 40 different diagnoses. The programs are designed to meet each individual’s unique needs, and inspire emotional, cognitive, social and physical growth through interactive and engaging activities with horses. Agape offers individual, group and workshop services, starting at the age of 4 up to senior citizens. They currently have 20 horses on over 30 acres between the two properties.
“The pelvic movement of riding a horse mimics walking, so it’s great for those needing to gain strength in their core and legs,” Amick says. “A horse is a sentient being, so it picks up on the rider’s emotions. They help to regulate the nervous system and create an atmosphere of mindfulness. Many of our riders gain confidence just from the beauty of working with a 1,000-pound animal. Agape becomes their place of belonging each week.”
Agape depends on the kindness of individuals and organizations through volunteer efforts and donations. Amick says it takes over 200 weekly volunteers to make Agape’s programming possible. She says even volunteering for a few hours makes their mission possible.
“Volunteering is one great way for people to get involved,” Amick says. “Giving and philanthropy is also another great way to help underwrite the cost of providing programming. Caring for our horses is a unique expense to our nonprofit.”
Another unique program Agape offers is miniature horse visits. These experiences are adaptable for all ages and are a great option for those who cannot travel to the facilities. The mini horses are a wonderful treat for nursing homes, assisted-living centers, community centers, schools, hospitals and churches. Amick says senior citizens especially love the visits as they reminisce about their time growing up on and around farms.
“We love having people at the facility year-round, but we’re also grateful we’re able to have a mobile unit so we can go to them too,” Amick says. “It’s really fun for the participants to pet and groom the mini horses.”
In the future, the two locations will be consolidated into one facility located at Stonycreek Farm in Noblesville.
