If you're looking for a different kind of therapeutic experience that combines a natural connection with animals and the setting of the Puerto Rican countryside, Isabela has an option worth knowing about.
Horses of Hope has transformed the lives of more than 400 people through its equine-assisted services, creating a space where therapy goes beyond the walls of a traditional office.
Since its founding in 2018, it has served primarily people on the autism spectrum, though it also works with individuals with emotional, psychological, cognitive or physical needs.
Led by Victor Balaguer, it grew out of a real need: "there was a great need for services that were different from traditional ones," he explains, drawing on Puerto Rico's natural connection with animals.
What can you do here?
The center offers individualized assessments to design programs tailored to each participant's needs. Therapeutic sessions take place in an outdoor setting and promote:
Life skills and autonomy
Self-esteem development
General physical and emotional well-being
Connection with nature through horses
Therapeutic activities
They provide equine therapy where participants learn riding skills while working on emotional and physical aspects outside the traditional therapeutic setting
They hold monthly trainings for volunteers and accept pre-veterinary and psychology students in internship programs
The facilities include a ramp designed specifically for people with mobility difficulties and a vehicle-accessible area for wheelchair users
How can you help?
Donations can be made through ATH Móvil by searching "CaballosdeEsperanza" under the "donate" option. For information about recreational riding and dressage classes, you can call 787-379-9305.
📍Info you need to know
Where?
Isabela, Puerto Rico
Website: horsesofhopepr.org
Contact: 787-379-9305
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
