Their names sound like they belong to mythical creatures in some fantasy novel. But Rugar, Hakon, Tumbleweed, Fidget, Magic, and Flurrie are the names of some of the most important staff members at Central Illinois Riding Therapy, Inc. (CIRT) — the horses. Along with human staff members and volunteers, the horses of CIRT are making a difference in the lives of children, teens, and adults with mental, physical, emotional, social, and behavioral disabilities.

Jenna Walker, Program Director and Head Instructor for CIRT since 2013, says the nonprofit, located at 305 Neuman Drive, is committed to the belief that persons with disabilities are entitled to the same opportunities and rights as their non-disabled peers. CIRT has been delivering on that promise since 1983.

Walker says the benefits of horseback riding have been recognized for many years. She says the bond between a horse and its rider is unmatched, and participants have fun while building confidence, improving communication skills, strengthening muscles, and growing their independence. CIRT riding programs are designed to be a unique and impactful experience that enriches the quality of life of participants.

“Riders don’t realize they are doing therapy,” she says. “They just think they are riding a horse, playing games, and having fun.” Children who may lose their enthusiasm for other forms of therapy are often excited and look forward to riding.

“I can take a kid who is hyperactive, put him on a horse that is super slow, and they feed on each other. It’s the same with a shy, introverted rider and an energetic horse,” Walker says. “The nice thing is that when you are around horses your heartbeat syncs with them and you work as a team. That builds confidence.”

Riders work on following directions, stretching, reaching, balance, and core muscle strength. At the same time, they strengthen their bond by grooming and caring for the animals. Walker says a horse’s gait is similar to a human’s — so much so that it is hard to duplicate with a machine, placing horseback riding in a unique position among therapy options. 

CIRT was founded 42 years ago by a group of Tazewell and Peoria County residents who wanted to use their love of horses to offer therapy to people of all ages. Seed money for the program was provided by 4-H, and CIRT still operates under the 501 (c)(3) charter of that youth-serving organization.

The program currently employs 12 horses serving 80 to 85 students a week. Classes operate in accordance with guidelines from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.). CIRT’s home since 1988 — a big red barn and adjoining pasture and outdoor arena across the road from Fondulac Farm Park — is provided through an agreement with the Fondulac Park District.

Students sign up for single or multiple sessions between April and November (weather dependent), with each session consisting of four weekly riding lessons. The minimum age is four years old, but there is no maximum — one recent student was 86. Every student must have a doctor’s approval to participate.

A $35 fee is charged per lesson, but Walker says scholarships are available and no one is ever turned away due to financial hardship. She said more and more are choosing the full schedule of eight sessions and spots fill up quickly. There is a waiting list, so she encourages anyone interested in riding therapy to apply.

Everyone agrees that it’s good to be a horse in the CIRT program. “They are the stars of our program, so we take good care of them.” Walker says. This includes regular chiropractic work, massages, and infrared therapy.

All the animals are older and have come to CIRT to live out their days helping people live better lives. “This is their retirement. It gives them joy and purpose,” says Walker.

They may be old but feeding and caring for a dozen horses is not a small or inexpensive task. About 100 volunteers pitch in on a regular basis to feed and care for the animals, while others organize fundraising events, work in the office, and work directly with riders and horses. All volunteers get trained in the specific responsibilities they choose. The volunteer staff also includes two therapists who assess student needs and evaluate outcomes.

CIRT is truly a community effort that Walker says is largely supported by donations and fundraising. Thrivent Choice, Caterpillar Matching Funds, and Kroger Community Rewards are among the funding resources. Individual donations are also accepted, with online giving through PayPal.

Regular fundraising events include a Pony Express- 5K Gallop and Fun Talk Trot in April; Derby Day Fundraiser, May 3; an Open Horse Show, May 31 in Delevan; a Sporting Clays Shoot, June 22 in Mackinaw; a Classic Car/Motorcycle Show, August 24 at CIRT; and a Barn Dance Benefit September 19 at CIRT.

In addition to riding therapy, CIRT gives students and 4-H club members opportunities to compete in horse shows like the CIRT Horse Show at 4 Rocks Arena in Delevan on May 31, the State 4-H Show at the State Fairgrounds in July, and the Tazewell County 4-H Show in Pekin on July 29. The annual Youth Charity Horse Show (YCHS) is held at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield in October.

Learn more about CIRT programs, volunteer opportunities, and giving plans at www.cirt.info or by calling 309-699-3710 or emailing [email protected]. Follow fundraising events and other activities on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CentralILRidingTherapy.