Background Happy Trails Riding Academy is a non-profit program, 501(c)3, which enriches the lives of children and adults with physical, cognitive and psychological disabilities through equine associated activities and therapy.  Therapeutic horsemanship provides a unique opportunity for self-improvement and independence in a positive learning environment, while offering a challenging alternative to traditional therapy.   Happy Trails Riding Academy assists riders with cerebral palsy, ADD, ADHD, head trauma, brain injury, sight and hearing impaired, developmentally disabled, autism, Down syndrome, etc.  As the horse’s body moves the rider’s body moves like it is walking.  No piece of gym equipment can replicate this three-dimensional motion.  Benefits of therapeutic riding include increased balance, strength and flexibility.  Increased ability to process information, improved language and communication skills and independence and self confidence are a direct result.   Happy Trails Riding Academy is the only fully accredited therapeutic riding center in the San Joaquin Valley between Bakersfield and Modesto.  We have been serving people with disabilities from Tulare, Kings and Fresno Counties for the past 22 years.  Our riders range from 3 to 65+, with 90% being children.  Our 2006 enrollment is expected to serve 100 riders.   Volunteers & Community Partners   Our riders work hard to meet their goals and are supported by the combined efforts of the equine, instructor and volunteers.  The program enjoys tremendous volunteer support.  Community support is also evident with the collaboration of local service clubs and youth groups, the Central Valley Regional Center, United Way and Kaweah Delta Rehabilitation Center of Kaweah Delta Hospital.   Happy Trails Riding Academy is volunteer driven, partnering with over 75 volunteers this past year who donated an estimated 4000 hours.  Volunteers’ talents are applied to a variety of tasks, but most often they work with the therapists and instructors in direct contact with riders and horses.  Other responsibilities include routine stable and pasture maintenance, assistance with fundraising and special projects.   Demographics   The current demographic profile of our 94 riders is as follows: 54% male    46% female   17%   3 to 5 years of age 39%   6 to 10 years of age 31%   11 to 15 years of age 4%    16 to 21 years of age 9%    over 21 years of age   85%   reside in Tulare County 14%   reside in Kings County 1%    resides in Fresno County   Need   We are requesting your help now to bring success of our program to even more disabled individuals.  Central Valley Regional Center (who refers 75% of our riders) estimates they could refer more than 200 riders per year if we had the capacity to serve them.   We are in our second year at our own facility and are raising funds to begin development of Phase II on the property-covering and lighting the riding arena.  It has been our goal to increase our class schedule from seasonal to year round so therapeutic treatment goes interrupted.  This would enable our program to continue regardless of weather conditions and outdoor elements.  It will also help with the health issues of our riders.   Happy Trails Riding Academy continues to strive to better the lives of our riders.  We thank you for your time and consideration.