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"There's something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man."  Winston Churchill

Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley, Inc. (EEMV) is a volunteer based, not-for-profit organization that provides people with disabilities affordable, enjoyable horsemanship experiences for therapeutic effect, developing and strengthening mind, body and spirit.

For more than 17 years, EEMV been helping those with disabilities by providing them with one of the greatest tools ever......the horse.  The benefits of horseback riding are as numerous as the types of disabilities and conditions served.  Research shows that people who participate in equine assisted activities experience physical, emotional and cognitive rewards.  The three-dimensional, rhythmical motion of the horse's movement stimulates the muscles of the rider, thus providing great therapeutic effects for those with physical disabilities.  For individuals with cognitive or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem.  Many medical professionals, including the American Physical Therapy Association, recognize the therapeutic qualities of equine assisted activities. 

Benefits of therapeutic horseback riding include improvements in:

  • Trunk control, balance, muscle tone and strengthCurran feeds PacMan
  • Range of motion and joint mobility
  • Fine motor coordination
  • Sensory integration and concentration
  • Spacial awareness and perceptual skills
  • Cognitive skills
  • Speech and language skills
  • Self-discipline and self-awareness
  • Confidence, pride, and self-esteem


Our students include children and adults, ages 2 to 70, who have a variety of special needs, including:

  • Attention Deficit Disorders
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Developmental Delays
  • Down Syndrome
  • Genetic Disorders
  • Head Injury
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Stroke
  • Vision/Hearing Impairment

Exceptional Equestrians is a Premier Accredited NARHA Center.  NARHA (formerly North American Riding for the Handicapped Association since 1969), ensures that all accredited centers uphold the highest safety standards in the industry.  For more information about NARHA, click here.