William’s Walk is our core and original program. Since 1996, we have served those with cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome, multiple sclerosis, Rett’s syndrome, autism, blindness, speech impairments, and many other developmental disabilities.
Through horseback riding and cart-driving lessons, participants with disabilities receive not only the physical benefits of equine activities, but also educational, social, and cognitive development.
Riders (age 4-18) and drivers (adults) attend weekly, 45-minute lessons, taught by our PATH Intl. certified therapeutic instructors. The lessons are designed with the individual’s specific needs and goals in mind. They include activities and exercises to strengthen muscles, increase focus, provide stimulation, and build relationships with the horse and team.
Apply to Ride
If you know a child or adult with disabilities who is interested in becoming a rider or driver in the William’s Walk program, please fill out the application below. One of our PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors will determine if he or she is a candidate for our program. We currently have a waitlist for riders and drivers, but we will serve you to the best of our ability!
Are you ready to change a life?
For every therapeutic riding or driving class, we need 1-3 volunteers per participant. YOU can help fulfill a participant’s hopes and dreams by volunteering in or sponsoring their therapeutic riding lessons! Visit our volunteer information page or the sponsor link below to find out how!
Why “William’s Walk”?
This core program was renamed in honor of William Ocker, son of Mike & Joshalyn Ocker. William started riding at The Right Path in 2009. William’s physical condition left him deaf, blind, and severely weakened in all areas. The core strength-building from riding provided drastically reduced his hospital stays. Although he was never able to walk independently, riding provided him a freedom that he loved. His love for the riders, volunteers, and horses at The Right Path is what brought the Ockers to take over daily operations.
William passed into the arms of Jesus on October 18, 2015. He is missed mightily, but his legacy continues through the love and joy spread through the William’s Walk program.