Programs
Program Offerings:
THERAPEUTIC RIDING SESSIONS
Horseback riding opportunities for riders with physical disabilities as well as educational, behavioral and social challenges. A wonderful chance to build self-confidence and improve physical health in a fun, relaxing environment! Sessions are run by NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) Certified Instructors.
HORSEMANSHIP RIDING LESSONS
Riding opportunities for beginning riders in a friendly, non-competitive setting. Indoor, Outdoor and Trail riding options available!
VISITING FAMILIES RIDE
Just visiting the area for a week or two? Please call us for one-time riding opportunities for children with special needs. A unique treat when you are visiting the Roaring Fork Valley!
SUMMER CAMP
A whole day ranch experience; riding, grooming, groundwork, chores, games, art and so much more!
History
WindWalkers was founded by Jay Swan and Claudia Griesser. Jay and Claudia began creating the concept for WindWalkers late in 2004 and by March of 2005 WindWalkers became a Colorado non-profit corporation. In August of 2005 we began seeing clients at our home on Cedar Ridge Ranch in Carbondale, Colorado. WindWalkers is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organization; donations to WindWalkers are tax-deductible.
Jay Swan – Founder
Jay has a background in experiential education. She has been a school counselor, an educator, an Outward Bound Instructor and is a NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) Certified Instructor. Jay has worked with children and their families all of her professional life. Jay is currently serving WindWalkers in the Founders role as a member of our Board of Directors.
Equine Assisted Learning and Therapy
Equine Therapies are proven to generate rapid and effective physical, behavioral, and emotional growth through increased neurological stimulation. Horse activities positively address a wide variety of conditions; physical, emotional, behavioral, social and educational. Equine Therapy results generally surpass traditional therapy and teaching outcomes, while at the same time build horsemanship skills and provide a fun recreational experience for clients.
Statistics
* Currently WindWalkers has three NARHA Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors and one Instructor-in-training.
* We have eight therapy horses under continual care by our Equine Team.
* We serve 36 families/individuals and have a growing waitlist.
* Located on Cedar Ridge Ranch in Carbondale, we have a heated indoor arena , two
outdoor arenas and riding trails.
* We work and consult with a variety of Health Professionals.
* We partner with other organizations throughout the Roaring Fork Valley including; Youth Recovery Program, Roaring Fork Autism Network, Mountain Valley Developmental Services, Wellspring Middle School, The Buddy Program, Waldorf School, Ross Montessori and more.