Our Mission
The mission of CM Star Riders is to maximize the potential of children and adults with disabilities to become independent, well-rounded, self-confident individuals by providing therapeutic horseback riding along with recreational and social opportunities and support for the entire family — to help eliminate isolation and promote full inclusion in the community.
Our Goal
The goal is to provide riding opportunities to all children with disabilities — physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, and social. Although the target population of NARHA programs was handicapped children who could learn to ride independently, Christine Marie's STAR Riders includes all children with disabilities, in the belief that every child can gain from the experience, whether or not they become an independent rider. CM Star Riders does not charge for services to any child.
An All-Volunteer Organization
Christine Marie's STAR Riders is an all-volunteer organization. Board directors assume oversight responsibilities for one specific area and act as a “staff.” A core group of founding members and supporters — supported by over 200 volunteers — donate their time daily and do all of the horse care and facility maintenance, as well as run the program, do community outreach, recruitment, training, and grant writing. All of the therapeutic riding instructors used in the program volunteer their time.
Discover the many ways to give your time on our volunteering page.
Every dollar and every hour goes directly to riders. Learn how you can help: make a donation, or join our volunteers.
What Guides Us
Every Ability Counts
No child is turned away because of the severity of a disability — the experience itself is the therapy.
Families Belong Too
Support extends to the whole family, eliminating isolation and building inclusion in the community.
Horses as Partners
Gentle, well-trained horses are the heart of the program — and they are cared for by the same volunteers who coach our riders.