Capable Strides

Here’s your chance to volunteer and contribute to the well-being of our horses and the important role they play in our community.

This is an opportunity for older teens and adults with IDD to volunteer by taking care of the horses. Limited to 3 volunteers per session. Wednesday mornings from 8:30-9:30 only.

Duties might include:

Washing feed bowls and water troughs
Sweeping and raking
Scooping poop

Filling hay bags
Grooming horses
Gardening chores – pulling weeds, watering

Safety is our priority; therefore, certain restrictions apply to interested applicants.

Candidates must have excellent balance and be able to move about freely over uneven ground without the use of aids
Candidates must be able to understand safety instructions and simple commands (STOP) and job instructions (Wash this, sweep here).
Candidates must be able to tolerate unfavorable conditions such as heat, cold, dust, molds, rain, and flying insects.

Inquire about availability and suitability for program

Registration Forms & Rules

Program Application

Barn & Property Rules

Downloadable Files

Participant Application

Waiver and Liability Release Form

Medical Treatment Release

Photo Release

Barn Rules

Property Rules

Mending Hearts,
One Stride at a Time

Mending Strides Ranch is the premier equine-assisted psychotherapy establishment in the Charlotte Metro area, committed to creating a sanctuary for individuals facing the impacts of trauma, abuse, and emotional obstacles. Our approach involves guided experiences with equine-assisted therapies that are specifically tailored to enhance mental well-being, build confidence, and find more joy in life.

Our Programs

6 Benefits of Equine-Assistance Therapy

Improved Confidence

Successfully navigating the tasks involved with Equine-Assisted Therapy helps instill a sense of resilience and achievement among participants, which boosts their confidence.

Better Communication Skills

Working with horses encourages non-verbal communication, such as body language and subtle emotional cues, that improves communication skills with others.

Trust

Participants learn to build a bond with the horses based on trust and mutual respect, which carries over to other areas of their life.

Connection

Building a relationship with a horse requires trust, patience, and mutual respect. Through these interactions, individuals can develop skills for building and maintaining healthy connections with others in their life.

Growth

Through regular interactions with horses and the therapeutic process, individuals may gain insights into their strengths, values, and personal identity to help them grow as a person.

Self-Acceptance

Interacting with horses in a therapeutic setting creates a safe and supportive environment where individuals can feel accepted and valued for who they are.