Our Story

The Society was founded in 1995 through the cooperative effort of a group of Richmond residents and the Richmond Committee On Disability working in partnership with the City of Richmond’s Special Needs Section which had identified the need for a therapeutic horseback riding program in the community.

The Society was incorporated under the B.C. Society’s Act in October 1995 and as a registered Charitable Society with Revenue Canada in December of that same year. (Reg. No. 89415 0135 RR0001).

The Society’s program began in May 1996 at Riverside Equestrian Centre under the direction of a CanTRA (Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association) Certified Instructor, thanks to the support of our founding Patron Milan Ilich, and run in accordance with their guidelines. These guidelines ensure the society provides a safe, appropriate riding program.

In the Fall of 2001 the Society was invited to move the program to Twin Oaks Farm, a brand new Equestrian Centre on No. 3 Road. At this time, Twin Oaks generously constructed dedicated office, lounge, and program space for the Society’s exclusive use. This was done with the support of Variety Club, The Chris Spencer Foundation, McDonald’s Children’s Charities of Canada and Mr. Doug Paterson.

Purpose of our Society

To provide a quality therapeutic horseback riding program for children and youth with disabilities in order to promote physical, social and psychological well being.

To provide through the program an environment which will help children and youth with disabilities achieve their full development potential, and encourage their integration with non disabled people where possible.

To educate other societies and the general community about the benefits of therapeutic horseback riding, and enlist their co-operation as well as practical support.

RTES Photo Essay

Our Community Partners & Sponsors