Red River Riders' Mission:
The mission of the Red River Riders Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Inc. is to provide physical and emotional benefits to improve the quality of life for people with physical, cognitive or emotional disabilities through horseback riding.
United Way Funding in 2026:
This year, United Way funding is being used to keep our horses healthy and our riding environment safe and secure. Without our arena and healthy horses, we would not be able to provide programming for the consumers who benefit from the equine therapy classes.
United Way funding has gone toward a number of different areas, but one notable spot was improving our Tack Room storage space. Previously, it was a damp area that was causing our equipment to not last as long as it should have. Part of the United Way funds were used to upgrade our shelving and storage units along with installing a dehumidifier to keep the room free from mold and mildew growth. This saved our organization from needing to purchase a much more expensive industrial fan.
Impact Stories from RRR!
The best thing about Red River Riders is the feeling of community and family. We have riders who have been with the program for over 35 years, and they keep coming back year after year. We have new riders who are so excited after one six-week session, they can't wait for the next six weeks to begin. Some stories shared with us include:
- A gentleman brought his wife to the farm. She had Alzheimer's. He didn't bring her to ride. She didn't know him anymore and didn't say much. However, he tells us the minute she got around the horses she opened up and just talked to them. It brought tears to his eyes. The connection between horses and humans is very strong.
- One Mom is quoted as saying her daughter has ridden with RRR since she was 6, so for over 25 years now. It helps with her vestibular balance, core strength and brings her joy by connection to the horse and volunteers. The vibe is like family.
- We have another mom who says her boys find riding the highlight of their week. It has increased their listening, coordination and balance.
- Lastly, we have another rider who started with high anxiety and didn't want to even get on the horse. After numerous riding seasons, she left us riding on her own with minimal support. Her confidence grew 100% around the horses and talking with other people.
Additional Information about RRR:
If you want to get involved with this fantastic organization, they do need your help! They are always looking for volunteers on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. They also need new board members for fresh perspectives. Finally, they have ideas for groups, families or individuals to volunteer on different communities or projects. Please view their website for more information: www.red-river-riders.org
Interested in learning more about Red River Riders? Join them for their upcoming fundraiser:
20th Annual Day at the Races | Saturday, November 7 | The Crescent Ballroom at Stubborn Brothers
They are grateful for the partnership with the Brewery. This is a new location for this fundraiser. Red River Riders hopes by bringing it closer to town they will increase visibility for their nonprofit and encourage some new participation in their event.
You can also email Chris Baldwin at exec@red-river-riders.org to learn more about how they’re supporting the health of our local families!