After growing up going to Special Olympics events with her uncle David, who was one of the first athletes in the state of Texas, Heather Hernandez Sedillo said it was a natural fit for her family to help people with special needs.
When she was working at Texas Tech University, Sedillo said she was ready to return home to Fort Bend County so she started talking with her parents about starting Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship, which came to fruition in 2014.
“I had a fascination in college, and I really got interested in the therapeutic value of the relationship with humans and horses and how that can be healing both physically and emotionally,” said Sedillo, who serves as executive director.
Since its inception, the nonprofit has grown to 20 horses on their equine staff, ranging from miniature horses to a big draft.
What they offer
The nonprofit provides therapeutic horsemanship programs for individuals ages 2 and up with conditions like anxiety, autism, Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis or post-traumatic stress disorder aimed at providing physical, psychological and social benefits. This program is also available to veterans at no cost.
Riders can also participate in the organization’s show team, which partakes in different shows for equestrians with disabilities, including the Fort Worth Stock Show, Houston Rodeo, Special Olympics and the Fort Bend County Fair.
Additionally, the nonprofit has an equine-assisted learning program, which primarily serves individuals with mental health needs. The organization partners with peer nonprofits as well as corporate organizations to help participants develop life skills related to behavior, personal growth, emotion regulation or professional pursuits such as leadership, communication and team building.
Why it matters
Sedillo said addressing clients’ conditions is not a one-size-fits-all approach, which is why each plan is tailored to their specific needs, ultimately hoping to help benefit clients’ long-term goals.
The nonprofit has seen many patients overcome all obstacles by saying their first words or taking their first steps, she said.
“It’s not just a pony ride—there’s scientific reasoning as to how horses help humans, and we’re getting more and more research every day about the benefits,” Sedillo said.
Get involved
The organization is supported by over 200 volunteer spots a week to help with tasks such as sidewalking, leading horses, prep, office administration and special events, Sedillo said. Volunteers must be 14 years or older and pass a background check, but no horse experience is required.
Interested parties should complete an online application and sign up for a volunteer orientation.
