The Mission of High Hopes

High Hopes fosters a vibrant community where horse and human interactions improve lives.

Our Vision and Values
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See the Power of Connection in Action

This short video offers a moving look into our Parkinson’s program—but it’s also so much more. It’s a glimpse into the heart of High Hopes: where people and horses come together to build strength, confidence, and connection. Whether it’s through therapeutic riding, unmounted activities, or simply sharing space with a horse, every moment at High Hopes is designed to improve lives and foster a sense of community.

 

Watch the video and experience the impact for yourself.
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New Programs, New Experiences

High Hopes is reaching more people than ever with two exciting new programs designed to bring the benefits of equine-assisted services to even more members of our community.

Minis on the Move brings our miniature horses to you: visiting schools, senior centers, and care facilities to offer moments of joy, calm, and connection.

Shared Strides invites adults 60 and over to experience the peaceful rhythm of barn life, gentle movement, and the powerful connection between humans and horses—all in the beauty of our Old Lyme campus.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to our program office today!

Email us!
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Philanthropy

It Takes All Of Us

The Work Continues

Last year, we served on average 72 participants each week. Thanks to the growth of our herd and the dedication of our team, that number has grown significantly — now reaching 106 participants each week across riding, unmounted, and specialty programs.This growth isn’t about filling spots; it’s about meeting real needs. Every new horse and every additional session means more individuals gaining confidence, connection, and joy through the power of horses.But a bigger herd means bigger costs: hay and feed, veterinary care, training, and more. Each horse brings hope to more people and it’s only possible with your continued support.

Visit our Planned Giving Page
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Volunteers

Horsey Volunteers Needed!

Do you or someone you know have experience grooming, tacking, and leading a horse? We are looking for YOU! High Hopes is actively recruiting volunteers with horse experience for the upcoming academic semester.
Learn more about becoming a volunteer at link below, or email us with questions at volunteer@highhopestr.org.

Click here for More Info and registration!

'Horses and Humans Improving Lives'

At our home, everyone is welcome

Horses and Humans Improving Lives

At High Hopes we celebrate and embrace diversity.  We strive to build an inclusive culture that represents the wide variety of populations we serve. We know that it’s our differences that make us special and those differences should be supported, nurtured and celebrated.

The people who come to High Hopes represent all ages & backgrounds. The majority of our participants are between the ages of 3 and 14, some are in their 70’s. Most participants have varying degrees of cognitive, physical, behavioral, psychological or sensory disabilities. There is no “typical” High Hopes participant, as programs are designed to benefit individuals with a wide variety of disabilities.

Check out our e-magazine for our latest stories!

More Stories
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Annual Report 2023-2024

Empowering Futures

Enjoy our special issue of the annual report. The 2023-2024 issue reflects on the heart of our mission with powerful stories, inspiring statistics, and stunning visuals that reflect the impact we’re making. Designed by the talented Michael Fanelli, whose deep connection to High Hopes brings our vision to life. Read the full report and discover how we’re shaping brighter futures together.

Learn More

High Hopes by the Numbers

20

Staff Members

Meet Our Team

16

Program Horses

Meet The Herd

336

Volunteers

Volunteer With Us

79

Weekly Participants in Therapeutic Programs

Learn More About Our Programs
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Programs for those who serve

Calling Veterans

For many individuals who have served in our military, the ability to remain relaxed in the present moment and make important connections with other people is more difficult than most of the general public. Often, this is a by-product of PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Additionally, when serving in the military, there is a demand for all individuals to be acutely aware of their surroundings at all times due to the perilous conditions faced each day. For many who have served, this hyper-vigilant state does not subside when returning to re-integrate into society. Making connections with civilians is challenging often resulting in a sense of isolation even when returning to home, friends and family.

Read More

Accreditations and Affiliations

Candid/Guidestar
Certified Horsemanship Association
Equus Foundation
EQUUS Foundation Mentor
Heti
PATH Intl.

More High Hopes Numbers

5637

equine assisted activities & therapies delivered

Find out more

10535

volunteer hours donated last year

Become a volunteer

93%

of our "staff" are volunteers

Read our stories

83%

of our operating costs are supported by philanthropy

You can help too

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