RHYTHMS OF GRACE

Rhythms of Grace is a nonprofit 501c3, organized in 2020 offering equine-assisted services to the public. The highest industry standards and guidelines of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl) are adhered to. The center is one of five PATH Intl credentialed centers in Iowa and the Instructor is one of approximately 40 credentialed instructors in Iowa.

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors, Licensed Therapists and trained horses and volunteers provide a safe environment for children and adults to develop independence, empathy, decision making skills and a variety of cognitive, physical emotional and social skills that impact daily lives. Participants gain general equine knowledge, identify horse behavior and one's own behavior with the help of the horse. Communication, trust, and respect develop. Licensed therapists use treatments involving the horse that incorporate movement to address medical, cognitive or behavioral health conditions. Rehabilitation post accident or injury are enhanced through the horse's movement. We work with clients who have endured trauma or emotional experiences as well as physical and birth diagnoses and conditions. This is a safe and loving environment for children and adults (and their families and caregivers) to feel peace and tranquility and achieve improved lives through individualized care plans.

The organization is funded primarily by individual donors, grants and program service fees. Scholarships are provided to participants to subsidize the cost of each hour-long class or therapy session. Participants partake in weekly one-hour lessons/therapy nearly year-round in indoor facilities and outdoor riding facilities.

We are governed by a Board of Directors who represent diverse skills and interests to support and guide the organization with various forms of expertise.

Volunteers are the heart of Rhythms of Grace and are trained and comply with a background check before serving. We speak person first, diagnoses second and all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Rhythms of Grace clients and volunteers succeed when all individuals are respected, all voices are heard and everyone has the support and resources necessary to thrive. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) including all faiths and backgrounds, focuses on building an inclusive environment where differences are respected and our welcoming, servant-minded spirit is revealed.