rooted in trust
Partner ProgramsWorking together to support children and youth across Niagara
Horse Sense for Kids works in partnership with schools, community organizations, and social service agencies to deliver meaningful, horse-based programs for children and youth facing adversity.
Through these collaborations, we are able to reach more children, reduce barriers to participation, and create safe, supportive spaces where meaningful experiences with horses build confidence, emotional well-being, and connection.
Our partner programs are rooted in trust, shared values, and a commitment to meeting the unique needs of each community we serve.
Ride N Play Program
Funded by The Branscombe Family Foundation
The Ride N Play Program is a two-hour, hands-on experience that combines horse care, riding, and fun horsemanship activities in a supportive and welcoming environment. Participants spend time grooming, interacting with, and riding horses while building meaningful connections with peers.
This program is designed to build confidence, responsibility, and emotional resilience, while creating positive, memorable experiences with horses. Ride N Play is offered specifically to support children from low-income families by reducing barriers to participation and increasing access to enriching opportunities.
Ride N Play runs for 8 weeks during the summer months (July and August). Registration is completed through Horse Sense for Kids and referrals from partner organizations (see above).
Horse Sense Academy
A partnership with Pathstone Mental Health
Horse Sense Academy is a collaborative program with Pathstone that offers children from the Day Treatment program meaningful, hands-on horsemanship experiences. Participants engage in activities such as grooming, saddling, riding, and groundwork, all within a safe and supportive environment.
These experiences are integrated into the Day Treatment curriculum to support confidence, emotional regulation, trust, communication, and personal growth for children facing emotional and life challenges.
Participants in Horse Sense Academy are selected through Pathstone Mental Health as part of their Day Treatment program.
Riding Towards Resiliency – After School Program
A partnership with Niagara Regional Native Centre
Riding Towards Resiliency is an after-school program that supports Indigenous youth through meaningful experiences with horses, cultural connection, and community building. The program creates a safe and supportive space where participants can build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop a sense of belonging.
Through guided horsemanship activities, youth engage in experiences that foster resilience, leadership, emotional well-being, and personal growth, while connecting with peers, mentors, and horses in a positive and inclusive environment.
Registration for this program is completed through the Niagara Regional Native Centre.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
A partnership with Pathstone Mental Health
This program is guided by a mental health professional and combines therapeutic goals with experiential horsemanship to support emotional well-being and personal growth. Through meaningful interactions with horses, participants engage in activities that encourage connection, self-awareness, and healing in a safe and supportive environment.
Registration for this program is available exclusively to children enrolled in Pathstone Mental Health programs.