NWTRC is driven by our mission of ‘Giving a Leg Up to people of all abilities’.
In the horse world, a “leg up” means to give someone a boost onto their horse. At the riding center, the boost carries them not just onto their horses back, but also into their lives. We are committed to providing each individual with the tools they need to learn and grow.
Established in 1993, NWTRC addresses the need for recreational activities for people with disabilities in Northwest Washington. Starting with one therapy horse and two participants, NWTRC has grown to serve up to 100 unique individuals a year, with the help of 7 therapy horses, two full-time staff and over 100 volunteers.
NWTRC is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Premier Accredited Center (PATH Intl.), one of only 279 in the world. Our program meets the best practices for health and safety of participants, volunteers, horses and staff. These standards ensure that our organization promotes the well-being of all participants and equines.
Core Purposes
1. Provide an environment where participants can realize their potential through empowerment and independence.
2. Foster and encourage the unique bond between horses and humans.
3. Be a model of best practices for the Equine-Assisted Services field.
Core Values
1. Provide safe, effective and fun horsemanship and horseback riding lessons to people of all abilities.
2. Provide a compassionate, caring, nurturing and respectful environment.
3. Provide an accessible program that overcomes physical, emotional and financial barriers.
4. Provide a well-maintained facility and well-cared-for animals.
5. Provide expertise and knowledge of therapeutic riding and other equine-assisted services.
6. Provide a strong and sustainable organization through fiscal and environmental responsibility.