Horse Empowered Learning Programs, Inc. (H.E.L.P.) provides clients with disabilities an opportunity to develop life-long skills that will increase their personal strength, independence, and confidence.
We believe that horses can truly change lives because we see their impact on our clients every day. Our clients not only build lasting and deep connections with our horses, but with our team of volunteers as well—and our volunteers develop deep bonds with the people they serve. H.E.L.P. is more than an organization—it’s a family for everyone involved.
Since 1984, H.E.L.P. has been changing lives one hoof beat at a time through equine assisted services. We are proud to continue serving the greater Austin community.
In the past ten years, H.E.L.P. has changed the lives of more than 70 clients with limited physical, emotional, or cognitive abilities.
Each year, H.E.L.P. volunteers dedicate more than 4,000 hours. From equine maintenance and working with clients to administrative assistance, our volunteers are the heroes of the organization.
Horse Empowered Learning Programs (H.E.L.P.) has been serving the Austin area since 1984. We are currently at a temporary facility next to Lake Pflugerville thanks to the Villarreal family. We have a barn, covered arena, and three pastures for our herd. Thanks to some amazing people, many of our buildings moved with us including our mounting ramp and observation deck (both built by Eagle Scouts). We’ve also added a new off-side mounting ramp thanks to another Eagle Scout! If you have a group who’d like to come volunteer and help us maintain our facility, please reach out today!
Learn about the horse-empowered programs we offer to riders. We currently have a wait list, so hold your horses and keep checking back for updates.
There are many ways to volunteer your time at H.E.L.P., from interacting with horses and clients to administrative tasks.
We can NOT offer our program without the generous donations from people like you. From Bubbles’ Buddies, Herd HELPers, event sponsors and more…YOU can make a difference.
Click here to read more about the unique challenges we faced when we had to move and continue to face while searching for our forever home.
We post to Facebook the most often with information about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, news, and stories from our riding lessons.
Stay up-to-date on all that’s going on with H.E.L.P.! Whether you’re a volunteer, donor, or rider, we try to make you smile and keep you informed.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help those with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges grow in strength and independence through personalized activities in partnership with the horse.
“Since we have started at HELP, my son’s core strength and expressive language have improved. Even though it is challenging at times since both his physical and cognitive skills are being worked on at the same time, my son loves the days he gets to ride. In addition to riding, being able to brush and care for the horses is very calming and reduces his anxiety. Grooming the horses has also encouraged my son to be more aware of others and it has increased his compassion for others. His confidence has blossomed too. I wish he could ride every day.” - The Hodde Family
“Raphael has shown a significant improvement in his ability to focus and sustain attention. This positive impact has transcended beyond the riding arena, influencing his independence at home and in school when playing or performing other routine activities.
My son's motor skills improvement is equally remarkable. The balance and confidence he has gained through horseback riding have not only improved his physical capabilities but have also made a noticeable difference in his daily life. Everyday tasks, such as playing with other kids in the playground or obstacle course, have become more manageable.
Lastly, we've observed growth in Raphael's emotional regulation. The calming effect of the interactions with the horses and the therapeutic environment has increased emotional self-regulation, especially after classes. We believe it has contributed to a decrease in behavioral challenges.
We cannot thank you and your dedicated team enough for the expertise and care you have provided throughout Raphael's journey in the H.E.L.P. program. Your commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of children like him is truly commendable.” - Danilo and Luciana Teles
Your donation is critical to H.E.L.P.'s success. Our program is vital to many people with disabilities in our community. We invite you to visit our facility to see the impact your gift is having on their lives. As a federally registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, all donations are tax deductible.
