Freedom Riders is a non-profit recreational equestrian program specifically designed for physically disabled children. Freedom Riders uses well trained horses and specialized equipment to provide balance, coordination, endurance, and improve ambulatory skills to children with cerebral palsy and other physical challenges. These children, with the help of many dedicated volunteers, meet each week during the summer months to learn horsemanship skills as well as stretching exercises and games on horseback.

The physical benefits of therapeutic horseback riding have been recognized for centuries. The physical impact of the horse's gait on the body improves function of the rider's pelvis, spinal column, joints, muscles, and even internal organs. The emotional and social benefits are equally important and beneficial to the children. Freedom Riders give the opportunity and the challenge for the disabled rider to savor their own personal victory by gaining self esteem, communication, self awareness, and the expression of feelings. Best of all, it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience which creates a special relationship between rider and horse and promotes personal challenges.

Most children have the opportunity to hike up a mountain, ride a bike, play ball, run and experience new and different things in their lives. Many disabled children do not have these opportunities. The volunteers in Freedom Riders are helping to change this. These children are able to feel a sense of freedom from their disabilities. Their spirits soar when they are on the horse. They are having fun while strengthening their muscles, improving their balance and flexibility and even learning horsemanship skills.