SOUTHERN REINS CENTER FOR EQUINE THERAPY

Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals living with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities across the Mid-South. Through the unique, powerful bond between horses and humans, our organization provides life-changing equine-assisted services that promote personal growth, improved health, and greater independence for children and adults of all ages. Since 2015, Southern Reins has served more than 1,700 individuals, each with a story of determination and potential - and each uplifted by the healing connection found through a partnership with horses.

Our participants represent a wide range of diagnoses and life experiences, including Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, developmental delays, PTSD, trauma, amputation, and other physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Through tailored programming and evidence-informed practices, we support individuals who benefit from improved balance, strength, coordination, communication, focus, self-confidence, and emotional regulation. Every session is guided by certified professionals who ensure safety, progress, and meaningful outcomes.

Located on a beautiful 30-acre farm in Collierville, Tennessee, Southern Reins serves individuals from 39 municipalities and 19 counties across Western Tennessee, Northern Mississippi, and Eastern Arkansas. Our region has one of the highest disability rates in the country - approximately 15.5% of residents live with a disability - making accessible therapeutic, recreational, and wellness-based programs essential. For many participants and families, Southern Reins provides the only service of its kind within reach, creating transformative opportunities that help bridge gaps in healthcare, education, mental health support, and community inclusion.

Our comprehensive programs include:
• Adaptive Horseback Riding – Skill-building mounted lessons that enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
• Occupational Therapy Incorporating Hippotherapy – Clinically driven sessions where the movement of the horse is used as a therapeutic tool to support motor function, sensory integration, and functional daily living skills.
• Beyond the Saddle Unmounted Activities – Hands-on horsemanship, equine behavior education, and skill development for individuals who benefit from non-riding interaction.
• PATH Intl. Equine Services for Heroes – A specialized program that supports veterans and service members coping with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and physical injuries through meaningful engagement with horses.
• HorsePOWER Work-Based Learning Program – A workforce development program for teens and adults with disabilities that teaches job readiness, communication, teamwork, and employability skills through real-world tasks in a barn environment.
• TEACH Learning Readiness and Reading Incentive Program – An innovative equine-assisted education program for early learners that strengthens academic skills, self-confidence, and social-emotional development.
• Pony Pals Community Outreach – Visits to schools, residential communities, senior living facilities, and partner organizations to expand the benefits of equine-assisted learning beyond our farm.

To broaden impact and strengthen community connections, Southern Reins partners with more than a dozen agencies, schools, and service providers, including Youth Villages, InDev Memphis, The University of Memphis TigerLIFE Program, Collierville High School Transition Academy, Opus Memphis, Memphis VA Medical Center, Alpha Omega Veterans Services, The Farms at Bailey Station, Concord Academy, Germantown Plantation, White Station High School, and Perea Preschool, among others. These collaborations support specialized programming, accessibility initiatives, and expanded service opportunities for individuals whose needs are often underserved.

As Southern Reins continues to grow, we remain deeply committed to our mission: to serve individuals with disabilities and hardships through the healing power of horses. We believe in celebrating the ability of every person, honoring their strengths, and empowering them to thrive. Our vision is a more inclusive, compassionate community - one where children, adults, and veterans of all abilities are supported, valued, and provided with every opportunity to reach their full potential.

Every stride taken at Southern Reins moves someone forward. Through our horses, our volunteers, our dedicated staff, and our generous supporters, we are transforming lives one ride at a time, and building a stronger, more connected community for all.