HorseSense, a non-profit organization in Coon Valley, Wisconsin, is seeking community support due to an increased demand for adaptive horseback riding lessons. The organization has been serving the Greater La Crosse community for 30 years, offering programs like adaptive riding horsemanship and HorseSense for Heroes for veterans and military families. The focus of adaptive horseback riding is to help individuals achieve physical, social, learning, sensory, and psychological goals tailored to their abilities.

One individual, Erik O’Brien, has benefitted from the adaptive horseback riding program at HorseSense. O’Brien, who has a heart issue, finds that working with horses helps him relax and maintain a steady heart rate. The motion of the horse’s gait simulates walking, providing a workout for riders with mobility concerns. The organization is seeking support to fund the Rider Scholarship Program, which aims to remove financial barriers for riders who may not have secondary assistance through state or other programs.

HorseSense aims to raise $7,000 this year to support 10-15 riders through scholarships. Last year, the organization awarded nearly $10,000 in scholarships to riders in need. Donations can be made to support the program, which helps individuals with disabilities build independence and benefit from the therapeutic effects of horseback riding.