About Pony Power

our Mission

Pony Power connects people with disabilities or life challenges to the wonders of horses, farming and nature.

OUR VISION

We envision a community where horses, farming and nature are accessible to all.

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History

Pony Power Therapies was founded by Executive Director Dana Spett in 2000 to provide horse-assisted activities to children and adults who need extra support. A lifelong equestrian, Dana discovered therapeutic horseback riding while researching alternative therapies for one of her daughters with mild special needs.

In 2005, Pony Power transitioned to a 501(c)3 as a first step in becoming the only equestrian center in Bergen County dedicated to serving people with a variety of disabilities.

Pony Power also offers nature-based activities, both as stand-alone programs and as a complement to activities with horses.

We strive to make our services as accessible as possible. The fees we charge cover only a portion of the actual costs of our services, and we fundraise as an organization to cover the remaining costs. We also have a needs-based scholarship program.

Pony Power has been a member center of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International since its inception. PATH is the equine-assisted activity industry’s leading accrediting body. Pony Power instructors are either certified by PATH or working toward their certification.

 

Who We Serve

We view disabilities and life challenges through the broadest possible lens. Pony Power's participants include individuals with a wide range of developmental and physical disabilities, such as:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Mental Health Challenges
  • Visual and Hearing Impairments
  • Traumatic Brain Injury

Our participants also include those experiencing:

  • Learning Differences
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Loss
  • Life-limiting or life-threatening diseases

Our programming is open to those who need more support or different programming options than traditional equestrian centers offer. There is no requirement for proof of a medical diagnosis, a doctor’s prescription or an individualized education program (IEP). The minimum participant age is 2.5 years old. There is no maximum age as long as our staff deem the activity safe and appropriate for an individual and a doctor has cleared the individual medically.

OUR VALUES

  • Inclusivity

  • Joy

  • Resiliency

  • Kindness

  • Connection

  • Strengths-based

  • Empowerment

  • Safety

  • Expertise