Business Details
23 Years
experience
Therapeutic Riding Programs for Special Needs Individuals in Merrillville
Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited has been dedicated to transforming lives through equine-assisted therapy since 2003. Our organization specializes in providing therapeutic riding programs for individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and other physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. With a team of experienced instructors, dedicated volunteers, and specially trained therapy horses, we create personalized experiences that foster confidence, improve motor skills, and enhance emotional well-being.Our programs operate year-round across four sessions, serving participants aged four and older. We maintain strict safety protocols and weight limitations to ensure optimal outcomes for all riders. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we rely on community support and donations to sustain our mission-driven work.
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Volunteer Programs
Horse Adoption
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer specialized equine therapy programs since 2003 for diverse special needs
- Our certified instructors work with 7 specially trained therapy horses
- Volunteer-led support ensures personalized attention during every session
- Year-round programming with structured session schedules and safety protocols
- Nonprofit organization focused exclusively on therapeutic riding outcomes
What people say
Excellent with the students
Amazing program
Feel calm and happy
Improved motor skills
Personalized attention
Services
Therapeutic Riding
Structured horseback riding lessons tailored for individuals with special needs. Sessions improve physical coordination, emotional regulation, and cognitive development through personalized instruction. Our program accommodates various disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Professional therapy sessions utilizing horse movement to address physical, emotional, and social challenges. Specially trained horses help develop core strength, balance, and emotional connection through guided interactions with certified instructors and volunteers.
Volunteer Programs
Opportunities for community members to support therapeutic sessions as horse leaders, side-walkers, or barn crew. No prior experience required with comprehensive training provided for all volunteer roles assisting riders with special needs.
Horse Adoption
Therapy horse evaluation and adoption program for retired or transitioning equines. Horses undergo suitability assessments before joining our program, ensuring they can safely provide therapeutic benefits to riders with diverse physical and cognitive needs.
Community Outreach
Educational initiatives promoting equine therapy benefits for special needs populations. Programs include public demonstrations, school partnerships, and community events to raise awareness about therapeutic riding opportunities and accessibility.
People
Ken Mertens
President
35-year insurance industry veteran with extensive nonprofit leadership experience, including 16 years with Northwest Indiana theatre organizations. Brings strong organizational and governance expertise to EEU's board.
Sandi DeVries
Vice President
Longtime EEU volunteer and board member since 2010. Directly engages with student riders as side walker and horse leader, maintaining hands-on connection with program participants.
Jeffrey Perz
Treasurer
Board member since 2016 with personal connection through son's participation. Combines financial expertise from credit union and chamber of commerce roles with firsthand experience of program benefits.
Lisa Way
Barn Manager
Experienced equine professional serving as lead instructor and equine manager. Provides critical expertise in horse care, program development, and daily operations management for therapeutic riding activities.
Amanda Geary
Volunteer Coordinator
Registered neonatal nurse with healthcare expertise applied to volunteer management. Coordinates volunteer training and scheduling since 2018 while maintaining clinical perspective on therapeutic outcomes.
Questions
What are the eligibility requirements for riders?
Participants must have a documented diagnosis, complete a physician's referral, and meet age/weight requirements (4+ years, 185lb max).
How can I volunteer with the program?
Volunteers assist as horse leaders, side-walkers, or barn crew without prior experience. Training is provided for all roles.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (EIN 35-1589914), all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
How are therapy horses selected?
Horses undergo evaluation periods and must demonstrate calm temperament, appropriate movement patterns, and suitability for special needs riders.
What benefits does equine therapy provide?
Therapy sessions improve muscle control, balance, coordination, concentration, communication skills, and self-confidence through structured riding activities.
