Dani’s Community Quest…Stable Hands!

Welcome to the second edition of Dani’s Community Quest for GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau! We’re not horsing around with this blog—let’s trot on and learn more about Stable Hands. Giddy up!

I recently had the privilege of touring the beautiful Stable Hands Equine Therapy Center in Wausau, WI, and meeting some of the incredible people and animals that make the center so special. Diane, the Executive Director, and Leslie, one of the co-founders, were kind enough to share their passion for the work they do. They explained how their equine-assisted programs have touched countless lives over the past 33 years. I was immediately struck by the warmth of the staff, the serenity of the property, and the deep connection between the horses and those who interact with them.

For children, adults, and families who have special needs, Stable Hands offers an inclusive and welcoming environment where growth, learning, and healing can happen at their own pace. Stable Hands creates a space where kids and adults of all abilities can connect with horses, build confidence, and experience emotional and physical growth.

Stable Hands offers a range of therapeutic and educational programs designed for individuals from ages 4 through adulthood, addressing physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. These programs are accessible, affordable, and can even be covered by state-funded programs like CLTS and IRIS, making them available to a wide range of participants.

Among the center’s offerings is Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), which helps participants build confidence and trust through activities like grooming and leading horses. This program focuses on personal growth and communication skills, using the horses as tools for self-discovery and empowerment. There’s also the Therapeutic Adaptive Riding Program, where individuals with various challenges engage in horseback riding to improve balance, coordination, and emotional well-being. The therapeutic benefits of riding are undeniable, and participants experience a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to the horses they work with.

Stable Hands also offers the Teach a Horse to Read program which introduces a creative way to engage with horses while promoting cognitive development, as participants teach horses simple tasks that mimic the learning process of reading.

One of the most heartwarming programs is Veteran Assisted Sports Training (V.A.S.T.), which provides free therapy for military members. This initiative is a thoughtful response to the unique challenges veterans face, offering a peaceful space to heal through equine-assisted activities that promote emotional well-being.

There are also other educational and developmental programs offered at Stable Hands. After an initial needs assessment is completed for each participant, they will be matched with a program that will best meet their needs.