About Us
Our goal is to enhance the lives of children and adults with special needs through animal assisted activities using horses and other animals to promote independence and personal growth through physical development, socialization, and learning.
Strides for Independence (SFI) is a therapeutic horseback riding program dedicated to serving children and adults with special needs in the Greater Sacramento area. SFI was founded in 2006 by Jameka Smith, who was inspired when she witnessed the amazing effect the bond between horse and rider could have on children and adults with special needs. It became her dream and personal mission to make this experience accessible to as many as possible. SFI is the result of hard work and dedication to a dream. We teach all of our students to dream BIG and work hard to accomplish their goals. It is truly amazing what a dream can do.
What is Therapeutic Horseback riding?
Therapeutic Horseback Riding or Equine assisted therapy uses equine-oriented activities to contribute positively to the physical, psychological, educational, and social well-being of people with disabilities. At SFI we use a variety of fun, educational games and exercises to achieve the individual goals of our riders. The benefits of Therapeutic horseback riding are truly only limited by a rider’s imagination. We invite you to experience and witness the amazing effect the bond between horse and rider can have first hand.
Who do we serve?
At SFI we serve a diverse population of individuals with varying abilities. Please contact us to learn more about how you or someone you know can participate.
