Old Lyme, CT — High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. has received grant funding from The Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA) to help sustain and expand its equine-assisted Parkinson’s program, which offers individuals living with Parkinson’s disease opportunities for movement, balance, emotional well-being, and social connection through meaningful interactions with horses.
The Human-Animal Alliance is the official sponsor of High Hopes’ Summer Parkinson’s Program. The grant will directly fund the program by helping offset the true cost of participation, approximately $334 per participant.
Known affectionately as “The Unshakables,” a name proudly chosen by the participants themselves, the program invites individuals to engage with horses through grooming, groundwork, and leading exercises in a calm and welcoming environment. Equine-assisted activities encourage balance, coordination, mindfulness, mobility, and social connection while creating space for participants to reconnect with their bodies, build confidence, and remain present in the moment.
The program was originally envisioned by local community member and longtime High Hopes supporter Carol Merkt, who helped launch the initiative as a pilot program two years ago. What began as a small trial offering has steadily evolved into two weekly cohorts serving approximately 11 participants throughout the year, reflecting both the growing need for Parkinson’s programming and the profound impact participants have experienced through the horse-human bond.
“We are deeply grateful to The Human-Animal Alliance for investing in this work and in the people we serve,” said Missy Lamont, Executive Director of High Hopes. “Living with Parkinson’s disease can often feel isolating and unpredictable. This program offers participants an opportunity to move with purpose, bond with horses, and become part of a community that understands and uplifts one another. Horses have a remarkable ability to meet people exactly where they are, without judgment or expectation, and that experience can be powerful.”
The Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA) is a nonprofit organization that deeply believes in the power and value of human-animal connection. Founded in 2022 by advocate and philanthropist Jackie Ducci, H-AA funds charitable initiatives nationwide that preserve existing human-animal connections and create new ones. The organization awards grants to exceptional grassroots programs that strengthen the vital role animals play in human well-being. Jackie personally covers all overhead expenses, ensuring that every dollar donated directly supports impactful work.
High Hopes offers Parkinson’s programming year-round and plans to continue expanding opportunities for participants. Individuals interested in joining the Parkinson’s program this fall, volunteering, or helping sustain these programs are encouraged to visit www.highhopestr.org or call 860-434-1974 for more information.
For more than 50 years, High Hopes has provided equine-assisted services that improve lives through the connection between horses and humans. Located in Old Lyme, Connecticut, High Hopes serves individuals of all ages and abilities through therapeutic riding, horsemanship, wellness, and equine-facilitated programs.