ABOUT US:

The Merry Go Round is a non-profit organization, (501 (C) 3 pending),  providing recreational therapeutic riding for students of special needs. We are a NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) Member Center

The facility is currently gearing up in two locations:  Desert Hills, and Pine, Arizona. 

Founded by Teeka Leone and Lynn Waters, two horsewomen who share the same vision, The Merry Go Round has many therapy horses, some of which were rescued from abuse or neglect.  After rehabilitation, they too have a job and bring thousands of smiles to students in the program.

Mission Statement:

The Merry Go Round Staff is committed to helping abused horses gain trust and useful lives through rehabilitation and training.  By partnering these horses with students of special needs they are both given the opportunity for personal growth through relationships.  This gives everyone, regardless of their ability, the benefits that result from the bond between horse and rider.

Officers and Board Of Directors:

Benefits:

All Riders benefit from therapeutic riding.  Through  friendships  developed with horses, volunteers and instructors, increased independence, self-esteem and confidence will unquestionably result. 

The Merry Go Round facility replaces struggles of everyday life with smiles, laughter and caring.

Here everyone is seen as an equestrian.  No other labels apply.  Everyone learns confidence from the riding skills we teach and emotional fulfillment from the bond they create with their horse.

Physical Disabilities

The gentle rhythmic movement of a horse helps increase balance, posture, muscle control and strength of riders with impaired mobility.  For our physically disabled riders, independence is one of the first goals they obtain.  The horse is a way for them to gain the freedom of movement that most of us take for granted. 

Cognitive Disabilities

Riding promotes concentration, patience, sequencing and discipline.  The horse is a great motivator to help riders achieve their goal.  A child with ADHD learns that he must focus in order to handle his mount and therefore must control his tendency to be distracted.  A rider with Downs Syndrome can now remember and complete a four step task.

Emotional Disabilities

The relationship that develops between a horse and  rider with emotional trauma helps the rider to overcome fears and to gain trust.   The horse responds with kindness and unconditional love.  Trust, caring and a sense of worth tend to resurface.   

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