Unbridled
Growth
Equine Assisted Programs
A person with a physical, cognitive or emotional special need can find interactions with horses to be highly rewarding. For example, the rhythmic motion of a horse can help riders with physical needs show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. Research shows that a large group of people with various physical issues and disabilities across all ages can benefit greatly, both physically and emotionally, from equine assisted activities. The relationship formed between human and equine can also lead to increased self confidence and self esteem for those individuals with emotional and cognitive challenges.
Program Enrollment
Interested participants should download our Participant Handbook. This document will answer many questions about available programs and the registration process. Once this has been submitted, Great Oak staff will reach you to schedule a screening.
Participant Handbook and Application
Scholarship Information
Great Oak strives to make our services available to all participants whose application for registration is accepted but cannot afford full tuition. Great Oak fulfills this mission through the generosity of our supporters.
Financial Assistance Policy and Application
Our Programs
Please find information on the various programs we have developed as a direct response to the needs of our community.
All our instructors are certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH).

To enroll in lessons, please email Nicole Pioli, Director at nicole@greatoakeap.org or visit our Participant Handbook.
Great Oak Assisted Life Skills (GOALS)

Special Olympics Equestrian Team


For more information, please email nicole@greatoakeap.org
Community Based Instruction and Field Trips


GO Ponies
Boomer genuinely enjoys our most independent riders and thrives when teaching trotting and autonomy with our participants. Boomer loves a few carrots after a day of good work. Buddy, PATH Region 3 Horse of the Year, enjoys ring work and connecting with his riders. You will always catch Buddy looking out for his herd, in and out of the ring, whether it be riders or ponies. Monday, our resident paint and only gaited horse, does his best work connecting to his riders through ground work. Being our youngest, he has a goofy personality and loves a challenge. Quarter Pounder (QP) , adores all riders but has a special place in his heart for our youngest participants. QP can be easily spotted in the arena playing games or with balloons. Blazer is a retired mounted unit horse, who loves making goofy faces and seeing people smile. At any moment, you will find him with his tongue out, enjoying a good groom or a snack. Woody is his best self when he is in the ring with our participants. He always gives his all to every student. A day in the life of Woody would definitely include a trail ride and a Magna Wave session.
For More Information
To find out more about any of our programs, feel free to call or email the office.
Email Address:
info@greatoakeap.org
Phone Number:
803-226-0056