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 HorseAbility began in 1993 when its founder, Kathleen (Katie) Kilcommons McGowan, lent her horse to a friend and physical therapist who used Hippotherapy as a treatment modality for a child with cerebral palsy. When she saw the child's physical and emotional connection with the animal and how her treatment accelerated through the use of the horse, Katie knew she had found her calling. Combining her education, her love of children, and her relationship with horses, she forged her own trail to start this wonderful organization. The organization converted from a sole proprietorship to a New York Not-for-Profit Corporation with IRS 501(c)(3) status in 2001. Since that time, HorseAbility has significantly increased its operations and expanded its organizational structure. We are one the only "NARHA Premier Accredited Centers" on Long Island. To achieve this accreditation from the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), the program must meet many industry standards. HorseAbility's mission is to offer a wide range of horse-related programs to children, adults, and families with special needs to promote the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual well being of its participants. The personal attention that each participant receives from our wonderful staff and volunteers is unparalleled. Consultation with participants, their families, and staff takes place on a regular basis to ensure that the appropriate level of service and programs are being utilized to optimize the impact of our programs. The population HorseAbility serves ranges from those who are physically challenged (e.g. people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and visual impairments), developmentally and cognitively disabled (e.g. people with Down Syndrome, Autism, and learning disabilities), and emotionally disabled (e.g. people with interpersonal difficulties and psychological impairments). |
