Our Mission

The mission of High Hopes is to improve the lives of people with cognitive, physical and emotional disabilities through the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding and other equine assisted activities, while serving the therapeutic riding profession through training and education.

 

Our biggest fundraiser of the year is our Annual Gala, Auction and Scholarship Drive. Did you see Mark’s Story?

Many veterans could not participate without donations to the scholarship fund. Most of these people already face financial and other burdens because of the disability/existing financial burden of families with disabilities. Donor support enables High Hopes to accept all who can benefit from our services regardless of financial circumstances.

Watch the video

The Latest

  • High Hopes Careers, News

    Development Coordinator

    High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc., in Old Lyme, CT, seeks an individual for the position of Development Coordinator. This position reports to and provides support to the Development Director to ensure that the development strategy is implemented. Successful candidates must have strong interpersonal, communication and technology skills, and be familiar with donor database management systems […]

  • Holiday Market 2018

    2018 Holiday Market – Call for Vendors

    Sunday, November 11, 2018, 11 am – 4 pm Over the past eight years, the High Hopes Holiday Market has grown into one of Connecticut’s premier Holiday Events. More than 60, thoughtfully curated vendors come together with food stalls, music, kids’ activities, and a whole barn-full of holiday spirit, to benefit over 1600 children, teens, […]

  • High Hopes Careers, News

    Farm Caretaker

    LIVE IN POSITION High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. in Old Lyme, CT is seeking an individual with equine care, building and farm maintenance skills to assist in the care and maintenance of our facility, horses and grounds. As an integral team member, communication and organizational skills are essential.  The Farm Caretaker assists the Equine Operations […]

Volunteer News >
  • We truly believe therapeutic riding is a way of life. It is not only a lesson once a week but a complete sense of belonging, something that children with special needs may never get a chance to experience. Riding for our sons is not just about the therapy provided to their bodies as they struggle with sense & balance, but also helps them with social & language skills. High Hopes is more than a place you go to watch your child or loved one ride, it is an experience for all who enter the front door. Being a part of High Hopes is one of the greatest things we have ever done for our children, our family & ourselves.
    ~ Jennifer and Peter
    parents to High Hopes riders Matthew (9), Andrew (7) and James (7)
  • What I quickly saw was an improvement in her school work and we all have seen a more positive attitude in everything she attempts. I never thought an hour a week of horseback riding could do so much.
    ~ Proud Parent
  • I love you horse. I don't know what I would do without you.
    ~ Participant
  • I fly high as I ride. Horses enable me to do so much. I love to ride. I love High Hopes.
    ~ Participant
  • In the past few years I have seen my sweet little guy grow by leaps and bounds! I have watched his focus improve, his eye contact get better, and his body get stronger. I know all this is due, in great part, to the amazing healing powers of your horses. They are truly miracle workers.
    ~ Parent
  • I like to go last so I can go fast!
    ~ Participant
  • My students gain so much when sensory skills are involved in their day. Until you have first-hand experience seeing what High Hopes offers to these individuals and the impact it has on their lives, you cannot imagine how important it is to them to participate weekly. With the economy affecting everything in our lives, it is so nice to know that there are people that are still willing to give for others to enjoy and improve their quality of life.
    ~ Teacher
  • Due to the severity of their cognitive and physical disabilities, my students do not have access to the recreational opportunities that other children have, such as LIttle League or music lessons. High Hopes is an incredibly valuable opportunity for them. These students come from families who are not in a position to provide this kind of experience for their children. Given the schools' budgetary constraints, we are fortunate indeed that scholarship money is available.
    ~ Teacher