Therapeutic Horsemanship

“This program has helped Clay find a sense of self in a nurturing environment where he can learn and have fun.” – Mandi, mom

The Therapeutic Horsemanship Program at Camp Cheerful provides a unique and healing environment for both children and adults in an outdoor, nature-based setting. Interacting with horses creates space for participants to experience mental, physical, and emotional growth through professionally facilitated equine-based activities. Services are provided by PATH certified professionals and are offered 6 days per week on a year-round basis.

Adapted Riding Eligibility

Recreation based horseback riding lessons are offered to participants ages 4 through adulthood, with and without disabilities, on a weekly basis, year-round. Working with our PATH Certified Instructors and team of gentle horses, riders are taught horsemanship skills in an environment that’s tailored to their specific needs, goals, and learning styles, with an emphasis on proper riding position and reining skills.

2026 Adapted Riding Class Session Dates:
SESSIONDATES
Session 3May 25 – August 1
Session 4August 3 – October 3
Session 5October 5 – December 12
  • Riding and horsemanship classes are available for riders with and without disabilities.
  • Class offerings include morning, evening, and Saturday options based on availability and rider ability, which will be determined after the application and intake process has been completed.
  • Class duration is 45 minutes once a week for 10 weeks.
  • Classes are group lessons (up to 5 riders in each class).
  • The cost is $450 per session with an additional annual registration fee of $50.
  • Please review the eligibility criteria listed in our handbook below prior to registering. If you have any questions, please contact Cory Ramsey at 440-238-6200 ext. 225 or email cory.ramsey@achievementctrs.org

Pony Pals

Our Pony Pals Program is designed for typically-developing children ages 4-12. It consists of 1-hour classes, which include a 30-minute beginner horseback riding lesson and a 30-minute hands-on ground lesson covering safety, grooming, stable care, and more! (For children with special needs, we offer our Adapted Riding Program.)

Pony Pals 2026 Sessions
SESSIONDATESTIME
Session 1 Mondays June 1 – June 22, 2026Mondays 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Session 2Wednesdays June 3 – June 24, 2026M9:00 am – 10:00 am
Session 3Mondays June 29 – July 20, 2026Mondays 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Session 4Wednesdays July 1 – July 22, 2026Wednesdays 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Session 5Mondays July 27 – August 17, 2026Mondays 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Session 6Wednesdays July 29 – August 19, 2026Wednesdays 9:00 am – 10:00 am
  • Classes are held at Camp Cheerful in Strongsville and are limited to a maximum of 10 participants.  
  • Each 4-week session costs $180.00.
  • For more information contact Cory Ramsey at cory.ramsey@achievementctrs.org

Equine Assisted Activities for Education, Leadership/Team Building and Mental Health Groups

Equine Assisted Activities are hands on, experiential and unmounted (no riding). Using the unique abilities of horse and their natural herd dynamics, participants have the opportunity to gain insight and experience in many areas such as mindfulness, self-awareness, communication styles, patterns, etc. Activities motivate through common goals, creativity and distributed ownership as everyone has a role in participation.

Adapted Riding Eligibility

Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria listed below to be considered for participation.

  • All forms and paperwork must be completed and updated on an annual basis
  • Fees must be paid as agreed before the start of each session
  • Must be a minimum age of 4 years or older at the start of the session
  • Wear an approved helmet, footwear, and any other necessary safety equipment
  • Weigh under 180 lbs for independent riders, weigh under 50 lbs for riders who cannot bear weight
  • Be of a weight and height ratio that can safely be managed by staff, volunteers, and/or the equine
  • Mount and dismount safely with assistance
  • Sit up on their own with minimal assistance
  • Maintain head and neck control at all times
  • Maintain a centered position while the horse is in motion
  • Sit quietly in the saddle without excessive movement
  • Understand and comply with verbal instructions
  • Actively engage in a positive manner with the horse, other riders, instructors, and volunteers
  • Ability to participate meaningfully
  • Demonstrate safety awareness
  • Ability to tolerate extreme temperatures
  • Ability to progress as evidenced throughout each session

“Each lesson brings precious moments of challenge, bonding, and joy. Smiles are truly contagious.”

— Claire, volunteer

Our caring and dedicated volunteers, ages 14 and over, walk alongside riders during lessons, lead horses or help with barn-related tasks. No experience is required – we provide training for new volunteers, and on-going learning opportunities.

Learn more about volunteering

More Information

Cory Ramsey

Cory Ramsey

Sr. Manager of Equine Programs

(440) 238-6200 ext. 225

Email