Whitewater Therapeutic and Recreational Riding Association, founded in 1994, represents the vision of Kerri Ellis and Joyce Scott. These women, raised with horses and later involved in the world of disabilities and special needs, envisioned a program where individuals with disabilities, the elderly and less fortunate youth would experience the benefits, joys of involvement with horses.
Thanks to a donation of 6 acres from Terry McNellis, WTRRA equines have improved pasture. A donation of a Noble Barn from Tim Westfall, was installed summer 2012 and added even more benefits to equine and volunteers.
WTRRA provides programs in the 100×200 Titan Cover All Arena which allows about 178×85 feet of excellent riding area. In addition, a grant from the Steele-Reese Foundation funded a 160 foot round loping arena and a CHC Foundation grant made it possible to develop an on-site trail/obstacle course. These additions benefit Lemhi County public as well as WTRRA programs.
Our Mission
To improve the quality of life for individuals with physical, cognitive educational or emotional disabilities through equine assisted activities and therapies.
Our Vision
To serve Lemhi County by providing a quality equine facility where the benefits of equines are promoted through education, recreation and therapeutic activities.
Directors
Steve Drippon, President
Shannon Williams, Vice President
Jill Henry, Treasurer
Rachel Alvarado, Secretary
Donna Berner
Bob Morton
Jessica Martin
Mike Kossler
The Team
Joyce Scott
After a formal education as a speech therapist she worked for over 25 years as a Developmental Specialist, Sr. and Early Intervention Specialist throughout Idaho.
Suzanne Nebeker
A Nurse Practitioner and she raises, trains and shows Missouri Fox Trotters and has trained multiple world champions. She judges national and international horse shows.
Steve Drippon
Steve, a Marine veteran participating in the Hoof Beats of Honor classes. Steve coordinates the facility projects, assists with horse care and volunteers in classes.
Jill Henry
Jill was an educator and a pharmacist, now coordinates volunteers, she volunteers in classes and as a docent for the Sacajawea Interpretive Center, overcoming her apprehension of horses at WTRRA.
Susan Dudasik
A Registered Instructor of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horseman, a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, specializes in: Western, English, Dressage and obstacle work.
Amy Berasi
Graduated from Kent State in Child Development. She is a Idaho Dept. Recreational Therapist and Developmental Therapist, specializing in early childhood development.
Gracie Fischer
Gracie has natural talent as a rider. She is willing to volunteer in classes, catch and groom, clean stalls, monitor horse care and is ready to help at short notice.
Britnee Jones
Chealsy Colpitts
Chealsy previously volunteered at a therapeutic equine facility in Bend, OR. She has always been passionate about horses and is looking forward to growing and learning.
We thrive with the generous donations from our donors.
Find out how you can help!
What is Therapeutic Riding?
Therapeutic Riding is an Equine Assisted Activity (EAA) taught by a PATH-Intl Certified Instructor. With a well trained equine, horsemanship skills are taught and provide benefits in the area of health, education, sport and recreation by contributing positively to cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of people with disabilities.
Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy strategy that utilizes equine movement as part of an integrated intervention program to achieve functional outcomes.
For more information on therapeutic riding, equine assisted activities and therapies visit: www.pathintl.org
