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Your Friendly Family Gathering Facility
Our program was developed to bring children and people together with horses in a friendly open, county environment,
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Clinics, Summer Camp, & After School Programs
Chicago Children Equestrian Center offers clinics, summer camps, and afterschool programs for at risk-youths in our community. Along with fun games, participants learn how to properly groom, saddle, feed, and walk horses to and from their stalls, and of course how to ride.
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Therapeutic horseback riding has been seen to benefit the well-being of many individuals with a variety of disabilities, special needs, and trauma. Individuals who struggle to express themselves verbally often excel when given the chance to communicate with a horse, working together in tandem.
Mentoring
We provide a mentoring program that enhances the development of youths while providing opportunities and exposure to equine resources and experiences that cultivate a positive self-image, educational advancement, and cultural enrichment. This program allows youths to form direct relationships with horses and their mentors who are compassionate and committed to working with them to excel in their endeavors.
Our mentoring program that uses an interactive project and activity-rich curriculum that promotes positive self-image and attitude, builds strong peer-to-peer and peer-to-adult relationships, and emphasizes the importance of teamwork, commitment, and compassion by utilizing a unique team model to connect youths and adults.
Riding Lessons
Chicago Children Equestrian Center offers riding lessons for participants ages 5-35. Our program provides youths and young adults with the opportunity to learn riding skills without the expense of leasing or owning a horse. We do this because we believe in the healing powers of horses, the lessons and values attained by caring for them, and that every child deserves access to these activities regardless of their family’s income, geographic location or racial/ethnic identity.
For children its so much more than just having fun and learning how to ride — horse riding lessons teach children patience, self-discipline, and accountability. Lessons are fun and recreational and can lead to lasting relationships with other students who share the same interest. We offer lessons for every level of rider in English and Western disciplines.
Employment & Job Skill Training
The Chicago Children Equestrian Center presents the "Summer Round-Up Program" which is an enriching job skills training and employment initiative tailored for ten youths and young adults aged 17 to 24. This program not only offers seasonal employment but also serves as a platform for skill acquisition in various domains:
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Horse Care: Participants gain hands-on experience in equine care, learning essential skills such as grooming, feeding, and basic health maintenance for horses.
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Stables & Ranch Maintenance: Through practical tasks and guidance, individuals learn the ropes of maintaining stables and ranch facilities, including cleaning, repair work, and overall upkeep.
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Working with Livestock: Engaging with a diverse range of animals on the ranch, participants acquire valuable knowledge in handling and caring for livestock, fostering empathy and responsibility.
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Learning to Work as a Team: Collaboration is emphasized throughout the program, with participants learning the importance of teamwork and effective communication in a dynamic work environment.
By combining meaningful employment with skill development, the Chicago Children Equestrian Center empowers young individuals to thrive both personally and professionally, setting them on a path towards success and fulfillment.
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Petting Zoo
Our petting zoo provides children with a joyful, hands-on experience that many would not otherwise have the chance to enjoy. Whether at our ranch or in city neighborhoods where access is limited, we bring gentle animals to children so they can learn, play, and create lasting memories that inspire connection, compassion, and curiosity.
Hayrides
A hayride is more than just fun, it is a way to bring children together, spark joy, and create memories that last a lifetime. At the Chicago Children Equestrian Center, we ensure that children from all backgrounds, especially those with limited access to outdoor experiences, have the opportunity to share in this special tradition.
Bounce Houses
Bounce houses give children a safe space to be active, build friendships, and simply enjoy being kids. At our facility, they offer not only fun but also healthy exercise and positive social interaction that support overall well-being.
And Much More!
Our commitment is to ensure that every member of the community has access to meaningful opportunities to connect, celebrate, and grow together. We invite you to contact us to learn how we can support you and your loved ones in building stronger community ties.
