Storm Harbor Equestrian Center

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Slippery Rock University

Adapted Physical Activity

Storm Harbor Equestrian Center is a non-profit organization that is part of Slippery Rock University. Our focus is on equine assisted activities for individuals with disabilities. We serve over 300 persons with disabilities every year, with the assistance of our volunteers, who put in nearly 5000 hours total!

Who can ride at the center?

We offer weekly riding lessons to individuals with disabilities and their siblings. Horseback riding is also available during field trips for special education students and group tours for other community organizations. Prior to riding at the center, individuals with disabilities must obtain a physician's signature on our medical form.

Individuals who do not have a disability and are current Slippery Rock University students may ride for the Intercollegiate Equestrian Team and take lessons at the center. For children in the community without disabilities, we offer youth horse camps on specified days.

What are the benefits of horseback riding for individuals with disabilities?

Research has shown that benefits of equine assisted activities may include improvements in:

• Balance
• Attention
• Gross Motor Skills
• Muscle Symmetry
• Self Esteem
• Confidence
• Speech

Plus, riding is fun!

Do you offer equine classes for college credit?

There is currently one college class held at the equestrian center. Equine Facilitated Riding (ERS 165) is required for students in the Adapted Physical Activity Minor, and falls under the department of Exercise and Rehabilitative Sciences. The class introduces students to basing equine handling and riding procedures, and includes practical experiences in working with individuals with disabilities during equine assisted activities. Additional college classes may be held at the center in the future. Contact steffanie.forrest@sru.edu for more information on the class.

Are you affiliated with NARHA?

Storm Harbor Equestrian Center is a member center of NARHA, the main organization in the country for equine assisted activities. All of our instructors are certified with NARHA. We are currently undergoing the procedures necessary to become a premier accredited center, which would make us the only center with that status in Western PA!

Where are you located?

View our Driving Directions to find out how to get to the center. We are located on Slippery Rock University's campus, which is about 50 miles north of Pittsburgh, PA.

How can I learn more about Storm Harbor?

Explore our web site to learn more about our programs and our facility. You may also schedule a tour of our center by calling 724-738-4010.

Vision Statement
Storm Harbor Equestrian Center will excel as a premier facility connecting the university and community through equine assisted activities.

Mission Statement
The mission of Storm Harbor Equestrian Center is to provide multidisciplinary professional preparation and research opportunities to university students through the medium of equine assisted activities for individuals with disabilities.