Agency Details:

Halleck Creek 4H Riding Club

Through stimulating therapy such as horseback riding and other outdoor activities, our participants learn new skills and expand their self-perception, enjoying a sense of freedom from their disabilities. We are committed to providing these services free of charge so that the therapeutic benefits available through connections with people, animals, and nature are never denied a single individual in need.

Description:
Using gentle horses and a wonderful group of volunteers, Halleck Creek Ranch offers a stimulating and valuable weekly therapy program to children and adults with a wide range of physical and mental disabilities. Riders enjoy the many benefits of therapeutic horseback riding including increased strength, flexibility, coordination and confidence. In addition to a riding lesson in our covered arena, riders enjoy a trail ride through the beautiful Nicasio Valley, creating a unique experience that cannot be duplicated in the arena. Volunteers groom and lead horses, developing valuable horsemanship, interpersonal and leadership skills. There is a comprehensive training program for all new volunteers to learn the unique skills necessary to volunteer. Volunteers and riders gain the opportunity to enjoy the company of peers of all ages in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is often hard to tell who is smiling more, the riders or the volunteers!

History:
Our program was born of the conviction that individuals with disabilities should enjoy access to
the therapeutic effects of horseback riding and other outdoor adventures. Beginning in 1977 with 6 riders and 12 volunteers at the home of one of our founders, we have grown to include over 400 riders and 100 volunteers enrolled in our program each year.

Contact people:

Molly Scannell, Program Manager, (phone), (email) Julie Cassel, Executive Director, (phone), (email)

Main office number: 4156622488

Address:

1740 Old Rancheria Road Nicasio, CA 94946 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.halleckcreekranch.org

Directions:

From San Rafael: Take Highway 101 to Lucas Valley Road exit. Go west on Lucas Valley Road approximately 9 miles to stop sign. Turn right at stop sign onto Nicasio Valley Road. Follow Nicasio Valley Road to town of Nicasio. Go straight into town (with baseball diamond on the left and little white church on right). At stop sign, turn right onto private road called Old Rancheria Road. (Look for Halleck Creek sign at the beginning of the road). Continue on Old Rancheria for 2 miles until fork in the road. (Look for another Halleck Creek sign here). Veer left over wooden bridge. Veer right through Halleck Creek gates. (For more detailed directions, please refer to our website).   Nearest Bus Stop: As public transportation is limited in the area surrounding the ranch, we encourage carpooling.

Last updated on January 2, 2010