Our vision is to improve the quality of life of those with disabilities, emotional illness and paralysis by providing services that fill unmet needs with the use of highly trained horses, skilled and experienced therapists and an understanding pool of volunteers.

We believe every individual should be able to receive the services they need in order to be the best they can be, regardless of their emotional, physical or mental capacity or financial means.

Equestrian Connection is a facility in Lake Forest dedicated to servicing children and adults with disabilities. From children as young as three, unable to sit up or walk on their own through adults with MS, EC offers equine therapy to as many clients as possible regardless of their ability to pay. Equestrian Connection has grown to become one of the largest, most unique equine therapy programs in the nation. Were it not for the synergy of all those involved, this would not be possible. It began with a vision to serve children and has grown to include adults, school groups, job training programs, senior groups, scouting units, churches, rehab centers and family members. We have grown to provide nearly 10,000 therapy rides annually. To do so, we are thankful to have a roster of over 500 volunteers who work with smiles on their faces and pride in their service to EC—grooming, tacking and caring for our 20 well-trained, quality horses who are given a second role in life, and assisting our therapists and instructors.