Our Programs

Our activities are designed to help increase self-esteem, build confidence and respect, provide stress relief, and create an environment that emphasizes bonding and nurturing experiences.
 
From the Ground Up is dedicated to helping each individual achieve the highest level of independence that he/she is safely capable of and translating that into other aspects of life. The therapeutic horsemanship program emphasizes fitness, independence and learning through a combination of groundwork, horse care and riding.

Our programs help a large variety of riders including, but not limited to, those with autism, attention deficit disorder, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, stroke and forms of paralysis, traumatic brain injury, and muscular dystrophy. Download our registration packet. Riders must be a minimum of 4 years old to participate.

From the Ground Up offers semi-private and small group sessions in:

Therapeutic Riding with a Centered Riding foundation. In Centered Riding, the horse and rider move as one through relaxation, centering and breathing techniques.

Brain Gym – body movements that stimulate or calm brain function.

F.I.T. – Functional Integrative Training – exercise to prepare for riding; make functional, everyday activities easier; improve health and prevent injury.

Integrated Horsemanship - instruction on the ground using natural horsemanship principles.

Other Programs Offered

Equine Facilitated Learning/Equine Assisted Activities for “At-Risk” Youths -a partnership between horse, student and facilitator.  The horse and farm setting is used as tool to help bring about growth and change as participants gain insight into behaviors, patterns and feelings that may prevent them from reaching their full potential.

Equine Services for Heroes - click on the navigation bar above for more information

From the Ground Up:

• PATH International Premier Accredited Member Center
• NYSHHAP Certified Facility
• Approved VA Medical Center Vendor
• Official Equestrian Training Site for Special Olympics in this region
• Host of the Independence Open Horse Show for Riders of All Abilities
• Mentor/Internship Provider for the Big Picture Alternative School of Lafayette, NY
• Member CNY Horse Club
• Member of the NY Farm Bureau
• Member Greater Cazenovia Chamber of Commerce

Our approach to therapeutic horsemanship is unique. The goal is to bring each participant to the highest level of independence on a horse that is safe and appropriate for that person. The program offers a progression from full support – someone leading the horse and two sidewalkers – to independent riding (if and when appropriate).