Executive Director: Jill Haag. Southern Reins offers equine-assisted services designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and hardship including Down syndrome, autism, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, amputation, cognitive and physical disabilities, trauma, and more.
Our programs provide access and inclusion, foster compassion and caring, and encourage goal achievement and personal growth.
Describe your personal goals and overall hope and vision for the Equestrian Community in terms of expanding and sharing horses and equestrian sports with individuals from all walks of life:
Southern Rein’s vision is one of inclusivity and accessibility. Our goal is to bridge the gap between equestrian sports and individuals who - due to physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges - may have thought such activities were beyond their reach. By fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and support, we can unlock the therapeutic power of horses for a broader demographic, promoting diversity and inclusion within the equestrian community.
How do you feel equestrian sports can better diversify our equestrian communities?
Equestrian sports can enhance diversity by actively reaching out to underrepresented groups, offering tailored programs that cater to their unique needs and ensuring physical and financial accessibility. By highlighting the success stories and positive impact of equine therapy, our goal is to inspire a more diverse community to engage in equestrian sports.
What are ways you/ your organization have successfully introduced horses to new individuals in our community?
Southern Reins offers a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs of every participant. Our flagship Adaptive Horseback Riding Program is an equine-assisted service that contributes positively to the physical, cognitive, social and emotional well-being of people with disabilities and hardship throughout the Mid-South.
Our outreach approach includes offering scholarships to ensure financial accessibility, developing partnerships with local organizations and school systems to reach a wider audience, hosting open house events to build awareness, and providing an affordable fee structure to ensure that our services are accessible to all.
