Therapeutic horse riding center faces closure without community support

For years, Bit By Bit has offered therapeutic horseback riding sessions to children with disabilities. The program has been especially transformative for kids with speech delays, sensory challenges, and limited mobility.

How They Help

One of those children is Kodiak, a young boy whose family says he began speaking more clearly after starting horse therapy. Before riding, Kodiak struggled with communication. Over time, he began talking to the horse, and eventually to people. His grandfather says nothing else — including traditional therapies — had the same impact.

The riding stimulates movement that mimics walking, which is vital for children with physical disabilities. Staff say it’s often the only physical activity some clients can tolerate.

The Financial Strain

Bit By Bit costs around $20,000 to $25,000 a month to operate. That includes caring for the horses, maintaining the facility, and providing trained therapy staff. The nonprofit relies almost entirely on grants and donations to cover those expenses.

But donations have slowed significantly since the pandemic. Program coordinators say they’re now at risk of shutting down before the end of the year unless they can raise around $120,000.

Call to Action

The nonprofit is now urging the public to help. They’re looking for donations, volunteers, and increased awareness about their services. Staff say many families who could benefit from the therapy don’t even know it exists.

To build support, Bit By Bit is hosting an open house on Friday, August 8th from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Attendees can meet the horses, tour the facility, and learn more about the program.

For more information or to donate, visit bitbybitok.org.