4STEPS is an ALL VOLUNTEER STAFF and relies on donations to fund scholarships and operations to provide therapeutic riding and equine assisted learning programs. 4STEPS does not turn anyone away due to an inability to pay. In order to make our services available to everyone in our community we are challenged to achieve the following goals: 1) To reach individuals and groups of people with disabilities in our community who can benefit from the horse human connection; 2) To provide scholarships for those who otherwise would not be able to experience equine therapies; 3) To expand programming to meet the needs of our growing and changing community; 4) To maintain our ongoing commitment to offering the highest level of industry standards, personalized care and quality in all we do. Adaptive horseback riding, also known as therapeutic horseback riding, focuses on the development of horsemanship and horseback riding skills for people with a variety of disabilities. The purpose of adaptive riding is to positively influence the cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals with special needs. Adaptive riding lessons are taught by PATH and CHA certified therapeutic riding instructors. These instructors have extensive horse experience, as well as experience working with people with special needs. Instructors use their knowledge to choose the appropriate horse, adapt the equipment or lesson plan to assist the client in achieving his or her specific goals. Adaptive horseback riding utilizes a variety of mounted and unmounted activities to accomplish the particular objectives of each client. Physically, riders can exhibit improvements in flexibility, posture, coordination, balance, and muscle strength. Adaptive riding lesson plans involve many exercises that can help develop sequencing, patterning, and motor planning skills. Clients can develop a sense of responsibility and independence while caring for their equine partners. Teamwork and social skills are developed as clients connect with others over a shared activity and interest. In addition to these benefits clients can find an enhanced quality of life and life-long enjoyment in a fun outdoor sport.