I would like to address some of the comments in these reviews. First, the owner cares very deeply for the students, horses, and volunteers. Everything she does revolves around the health of the horses and safety of everyone there (students, parents/guardians, volunteers). If someone is being unsafe, she does correct because they can cause serious damage to all who are there. Second, I have volunteered at Willow Ridge since November 2023 and I have seen volunteers come and go. There are three common reasons why volunteers quit. First, I have seen many volunteers promote themselves and be upset when corrected. Just like any job, there is a succession and training to advance to the next role. We have three roles for volunteers: General: Has no or very limited horse experience and has not worked with kids. Responsible for emptying wheelbarrows, watering horses, cleaning up, etc. Side-walker: Has some horse experience and has worked with kids. Responsibilities include interacting with the student while they are on the horse and ensuring their safety by walking close and making sure they are stable. Lead: Has a lot of horse experience and responsibilities are to lead the horse around the arenas and into/out of the stable. Second, this is a small business and the students rely on us to be there at our scheduled date and time. There must be at least 3 volunteers per student/horse, for the safety of the student. If one or two volunteers are not available that day, that student may not be able to ride, and that is deeply upsetting to a child who cannot handle changes to their routine. It is not as if you can't take a day off, but providing only day(s) notice makes it hard to get a backup to fill in for your scheduled time. Third, disrespectful to others (volunteers and students). Not taking direction from more experienced volunteers and disrespectful of how they work with the horse. My advice to anyone who wants to help kids with disabilities by volunteering at an equine facility: It is a noble cause and should revolve around the child, which if you cannot commit for full time, there are other noble causes that can use your help. read more

I have been volunteering at Willow Ridge for about a year, and you won't find a more caring place to bring your child to hippotherapy. I've read some of the negative reviews, and I have to say those experiences have not been mine or the other volunteers who have been helping for several years. Pam, the director, is passionate about keeping her students, the horses, the parents, and her volunteers safe at all times. I found that most of the time when there's an issue, it's because the volunteer hasn't read the handbook that Pam provides to every volunteer and is not following the safety protocols that Pam has put into place. Pam is very clear when you reach out to her to ask about volunteering, what your responsibilities will be, and that safety for all is a top priority. She is dependent upon the volunteers showing up. And, yes, there's a lot of work involved, such as leading, side walking, saddling the horses, barn maintenance, cleaning up after the horses, walking through mud and water in the corrals to bring the horses in, and maybe getting rid of a dead mouse or two! You're at a BARN. Horses poop inside, and it has to be cleaned up. But NO ONE works harder than Pam. She's constantly mucking out stalls while the horses are out, watching over lessons and interacting with the parents and kids (who love her), working on fundraising to pay the neverending bills for the care and upkeep of the horses, land, and buildings. Owning horses is expensive and takes a lot of time and work. I have seen how effective this program is for disabled riders. A therapeutic riding facility takes a lot of hands to be successful. If you're willing to work hard, want to be around horses, want to meet some wonderful like-minded volunteers, and are truly interested in helping special needs riders, then reach out. We'd love to have you join us! read more

We were looking for a therapeutic riding center for my four year old son who is ADHD, has anxiety, and another undiagnosed need that we and doctors are still working on nailing down. I searched for one on Google and this center popped up, and we have not been disappointed! The volunteers have been excellent with my son (he can be a handful :) ), and the riding arenas, both indoors and out, are well maintained. The pricing is very affordable, and the sessions are individual (1-2 other students may be riding at the same time but each rider has their own session and skill buildings going on). Pam also has special contests and raffles for the students and their families to enjoy throughout the year. Recently there was a pumpkin decorating contest and we were unable to enter as we are a large family with lots of special needs going on. Pam decorated one for my son and entered it, and even gave my son a prize bag for the entry! It made my son's WEEK! He still is displaying that pumpkin and has to sleep with the blanket included in the prize bag. We are very thankful for Willow Ridge and the joy the horses and staff bring to our family. read more

I have been volunteering at Willow Ridge Therapeutic Riding Facility for nine years. My responsibilities have included working with the children and horses in sessions, barn chores, grant writing, and assisting with fundraising. The barn is well-maintained, and the horses and barn cats receive excellent care. Every horse and animal should be so lucky! Pam, the person in charge, is straightforward and a no-nonsense person who values committed, trained, and compassionate individuals for the facility's success. She shows appreciation by giving gifts, buying pizza, and providing snacks and water throughout the year. After reading a few negative reviews, I wonder if any attempt was made to discuss concerns. This is more effective than writing negative reviews. Confrontation is challenging, but it is better than unfairly criticizing a facility dedicated to helping children build confidence, improve balance, and create strong core muscles in a safe, fun environment. read more

Mrs Pam is a no nonsense horse lover who has a special love and understanding for children with handicaps and special needs. These beautiful equine have a sixth sense about these kiddos who develop core strength and self esteem as they bond with the horses there. Mrs Pam will let you know how your child needs to behave in order to have a successful and safe riding experience. I'm so grateful to have found this place! Thank you so very much for your wisdom and care! God ble read more

I've been volunteering for Willow Ridge for 6 years now and truly enjoy this experience. Working with the children seeing their eyes light up and connecting them with the horses is inspiring. If you're interested in making an impact in the community with little kids and lovable horses this is the place! Pam the owner is wonderful! She's extremely knowledgeable and is like a mother to everyone! read more

I have been volunteering at Willow Ridge for several months and have nothing but positive things to say about Pam, the fellow volunteers, and the program. It is so rewarding to see the students progressing and to see clear improvements in their strength, coordination, and confidence. read more