At Rides & Reins, the impact of equine therapy is not theoretical—it’s deeply personal. The organization was founded in 1999 after Renee Elias and her husband saw how transformative horses could be in the life of their own child with disabilities.
At the time, equine therapy existed, but for many families, it was out of reach. “They saw that while equine therapy was appealing… the cost was prohibitive,” said Executive Director Virginia Zignego. “That propelled them to start Rides & Reins.” Today, that vision has grown into a program serving approximately 250 children with special needs each year, along with adults, assisted living residents, and now first responders.
More Than Therapy
Many participants already receive traditional therapies, but progress can stall. Equine therapy offers something different—an experience that blends movement, engagement, and connection. “There’s physical benefits, there’s core work… but also cognitive, mental, and emotional benefits,” Zignego explained.
On horseback, therapy doesn’t feel clinical. Riders play games, interact with the horse, and build strength without focusing on the work itself. That shift often leads to breakthroughs. “We’ve had children who are nonverbal… and then they’ll talk when they’re on horseback,” she said.
A Story of Strength and Confidence
One rider, a nine-year-old girl with spina bifida, reflects the kind of progress this approach makes possible. When she first arrived, she needed significant physical support just to stay balanced.
Staff used a gait belt and side support to stabilize her core. Over time, that support was reduced as her strength improved.
“She’s gone from having to use a gait belt every single time to now… she can pretty much rotate on her own,” Zignego said. Today, she participates in activities like ring toss and basketball on horseback. She’s building strength, but just as importantly, she’s building confidence. “Her siblings all have hobbies, and now horseback riding is something she can go home and talk about,” Zignego shared.
At school, it’s something she proudly shares during show and tell. When asked how she feels about riding, her answer is simple: “I wish I could do it every day.”
Expanding Who They Serve
Rides & Reins continues to grow to meet community needs. In addition to children and adults with disabilities, the organization now partners with assisted living facilities.
They are also launching a program for first responders. The idea began when an ambulance crew stopped by after a long shift just to spend time with the horses. “We really just wanted to do something to show appreciation and support for first responders,” Zignego said.
The program focuses on groundwork—grooming, communication, and interaction. It provides a space to decompress and reset.
Removing Barriers to Access
Access is central to the mission. “A number of the kids and families we work with are low-income,” Zignego said.
Support from Wispact helps ensure cost is not a barrier. It subsidizes therapy sessions, supports assisted living outreach, and allows first responders to participate at no cost. Without that support, difficult decisions would follow. “We would probably have to evaluate the number of services we provide,” she said. That could mean less individualized attention or reduced access. Instead, they are able to maintain a one-on-one model that meets each participant where they are.
A Community Effort
The work is powered by people. “We always need volunteers. No horse experience required—we train people,” Zignego said. Volunteers help prepare horses, support sessions, and keep programs running smoothly. Donations and awareness also play a key role.
“Sharing the good news about what equine therapy can do… that helps too,” she added.
Continuing the Mission
More than 25 years after its founding, Rides & Reins continues to grow while staying grounded in its original purpose. Equine therapy is not just an activity—it’s a pathway to strength, confidence, and connection. For those it serves, the impact is lasting.
To learn more, get involved, or support their work, visit ridesandreins.org.