Discover our Programs
Our certified instructors use adaptive teaching techniques to help individuals of all ages with disabilities or unique needs learn the skills of equestrian and horsemanship.
What is Adaptive Riding?
Our CanTRA, PATH Intl., and EC certified instructors use adaptive teaching techniques and/or equipment to help individuals with disabilities or unique needs learn the skill of riding. Some common diagnoses of our participants would be Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, Amputation, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Generalized Anxiety and Autism, to name a few.
Skill levels as well as goals of our adaptive riders are varied. They may range from an individual’s first contact with a horse to become confident without sidewalkers, to an advanced rider aiming for a gold score in a dressage competition. All of our programs are tailored to provide a safe and positive experience for our riders based on each individual’s abilities and defined goals as established during our enrolment process. Our riders enjoy the opportunity to explore their capabilities and successfully reach their objectives in a safe and fun environment.
Lesson Length
All lessons are scheduled in a 1 hour block.
Lesson Fees (based on season commitment)
Private Lesson = $60
Semi-private Lesson = $50
Group of 3 Lesson = $45
Fill-in Lesson (filling regular private rider absence) = $65
*This is a adapted recreation activity and not a therapy therefore is not billable to extended health benefits*
How do I register for Adaptive Riding?
Due to limited capacity, we do prioritize applicants with a medical diagnosis or identified social-emotional need by a professional.
If you are brand new to Hope, please complete the following:
If you are a past participant in any program, please contact our office to see what your next steps are for registering.
Invoicing Policy
Please see our Policies page to view the details for invoicing.
If you require assistance with funding, you can view some possible community sponsorship options on the Financial Assistance tab below.
For more information, please call 519-986-1247 and ask for Gretel, or email gstanish@hopehavencentre.org
Special Olympics Equestrian At Hope Haven
In the Spring of 2020 Ontario's first Special Olympics (SO) Equestrian team was approved, Hope Haven Pegasus!
We are excited to be laying the groundwork for other equestrian centres across Ontario and even Canada to apply for their own teams, creating a national pool of competitors. Thank you to Special Olympics Ontario for supporting our endeavour and the Owen Sound and District community for welcoming our sport within their organization.
Who can participate on the team?
All individuals ages 6 years and up with intellectual disabilities are welcome to join Hope Haven Pegasus. There are opportunities for both mounted riders and unmounted horsemanship participants to both train and compete.
Eligibility Criteria for SO
Typically an IQ score of approximately 70 or below
Deficits in general mental abilities which limit and restrict participation and performance in one or more aspects of daily life such as communication, social participation, functioning at school or work, or personal independence, and;
Onset during the developmental period (before the age of 18 years).
Want to participate as a team volunteer? Contact our Volunteer Coordinator for more information emccaskie@hopehavencentre.org
What is the regular season format?
Our Hope Haven Pegasus team has the opportunity to train year around. However, the bulk of our training and competitions happens between April and November. You can join at any time throughout the season that works for you! And yes, if you need to miss some training dates due to vacations that's just fine. Here's what's involved in the SO Equestrian season:
Weekly Lesson(s) - Once per week, individuals are scheduled a private or group lesson depending on ability, skill and competition goals. More lessons are an option for those highly competitive athletes. Unlike some other sports, equestrians have the opportunity to train year round or only join for the sections of the year that work best for them (dependent on lesson availability).
Pegasus Unite - Our team meets 1x per season for a special event where they will participate in some fun team building and wellness activities. We strongly encourage participation in these events as these are what make our Pegasus team distinct from regular Adaptive Riding programming.
Competitions - Two competitions (virtual or in person) are held throughout the season (May and November). These competitions are hosted by Hope Haven and include entries from across Canada. For athletes who are competing in dressage, they may also have the opportunity to compete in the Equestrian Canada Video Competition series throughout the year.
Why should I join Special Olympics Equestrian?
Special Olympics is a very special community that fosters inclusivity and health promotion for all abilities. It's an organization that is governed from an international level therefore any sport being offered under their umbrella has to follow very high standards and expectations for their coaches, training programs, facilities and competitions. They also provide health screenings such as dental, vision, feet, and hearing which are areas that research has proven to be overlooked for individuals with intellectual disabilities and can lead to secondary health problems.
Being part of a team encourages socialization, commitment, independence, and grows self confidence. Our special events allow our full team to come together and get a chance to expand your knowledge of horse care, general fitness for riding as well as creating life-long friendships. In your weekly lessons and seasonal competitions, you will be able to learn a variety of equestrian disciplines and then be able to show them off to your families, friends and other teammates!
What are the benefits of being part of the Pegasus Equestrian Team?
Skill Development: Our program emphasizes not only riding skills but also valuable life skills. Through regular lessons and competitions, athletes enhance their discipline, focus, and responsibility.
Community & Inclusion: As part of the larger Hope Haven community where we specialize in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, every athlete on our Pegasus team is valued and celebrated.
Physical & Mental Health: Equestrian activities promote strength, balance, and coordination, while also encouraging mindfulness and connection with animals. These benefits contribute to healthier lifestyles, aligned with the mission of Special Olympics.
Leadership Opportunities: Athletes have the chance to build leadership skills by working with peers, partnering with large animals, supporting teammates, and participating in both individual and group events.
What is the cost?
To provide program accessibility for those with intellectual disabilities who wish to participate, the Special Olympics weekly lesson fees are aligned with our Adaptive Riding and Adaptive Horsemanship programs (please see those pages for the cost breakdown). There is no cost to our competitions at this time as Hope Haven will be seeking donors to offset the extra costs in order to make this an accessible program.
If you require assistance with funding, view some possible community sponsorship options on the Financial Assistance tab below.
How do I register?
Step 1 - Click here to register to become an athlete with Special Olympics Ontario.
Step 2 - We will also need for you to complete our Hope Haven Application form which will go directly into your file at Hope Haven. Click here to start our "Online Participant Application".
For more information, please call 519-986-1247 and ask for Shannon, or email sspeer@hopehavencentre.org
Special Olympics Ontario Resources
SO Coach and Volunteer Code of Conduct
Rowan's Law - Concussion Awareness Resource
Horsemasters
Evaluation on how well the rider has learned:
- Parts of the horse
- Parts of their tack
- Performance on one practical test
All 3 areas are marked and summed for a total score.
There are 3 levels of testing; Beginner, Intermediate ,and Advanced. Only those that score 100% receive their certificates and may move on to challenge the next level.
Athletes will be provided with 2 options for communicating results depending on their abilities:
Option A: the athlete touches a part of the horse/tack when asked by the judge.
Option B: the athlete names a part of the horse/tack indicated by the judge. (athletes who are non-verbal do not need to complete option B before moving onto next level)
Visit our Learning Resources page to print off labelled diagrams of tack and horse parts to continue your learning at home.
Showmanship
The athlete's ability to handle and show the horse from the ground, with safety as the main consideration. The athlete will be asked by the judge to complete some or all of these elements, making sure to be in the correct position with respect to their horse:
- walk or trot on lead
- halt
- pivot or turn (quarter, half or full)
- backing in a straight or curved line
- squaring up or setting up for inspection
During inspection the athlete must position themselves according to where the judge is standing using the quarter method. The appearance of the horse and tack as well as the rider are judged (grooming of horse, tack cleaning, athlete's attire is presentable). Maximum score is 100 points: appearance of horse and athlete = 20, showing the horse in the ring = 60, poise, alertness and merits = 20.
Freestyle Horsemanship
The athlete's ability to handle/lead the horse from the ground performing 6-8 required elements or obstacles in whatever pattern the athlete chooses. May have music and costume as an added artistic element. Examples of elements include:
- pole line - 3 minimum
- serpentines - 4 turn minimum
- 10 metre circle on each rein
- passing through a rope gait
- backing
- turn or pivot
- trot
- halt
- bridge
Maximum score is 100 points: completion of elements = 60, creativity and fluidity of pattern = 20, presentation of athlete and horse team = 20.
Equitation
The rider is judged on their position, balance, use of their natural aids, and their ability to control their horse through some or all of the following:
- Different gaits that are within their skill level (walk, trot, canter)
- Transitions between gaits
- C level - free walk/working walk
- B level - walk/trot/walk
- A level - trot/canter/trot or walk/canter/trot
- Halt (4-6 seconds)from walk, trot or canter
- Small circle (10m) at walk or trot
- Large circle (20m) at trot or canter
- Figure 8 at walk or trot (circles between 6-15m)
- Diagonal lines at walk or trot
- Reverse direction with a 6m half circle at walk or trot
- Serpentine at posting trot (with change of diagonals for A level)
- Change leads at canter, simple or interrupted
- Figure 8's at the canter, simple change of lead (circles between 15-20m)
Riders will be expected to ride in both directions around the ring performing these requirements when indicated by the judge. Each component or movement will be marked out of 10 and then added together for a total score.
Equitation Jumping
The rider is judged on accuracy of course, correct approach and position over fence.
This discipline is offered for independent division levels:
- CI - walk course of 4-8 ground poles, max height 15cm
- BI - trot course of 6-8 fences, max height 30cm
- A - canter course of 6-8 fences, max height 60cm
Arena set-up 60x30m, fenced in, neutral colour fences that can be decorated. Course to include outside lines, diagonal with change of direction
This video is an example of a CI level rider completing her class.
Dressage
The art of communication between the horse and rider who performs a series of predetermined movements and patterns. The letters that surround the dressage ring map out the patterns and movements to be ridden. All gaits within the athlete's competing level will be required within the test.
All Special Olympics dressage tests may be called/read. As the dressage test is being performed, the judge will mark each required movement on a scale of 0-5 as well as collective marks awarded after the test has been completed.
Freestyle Dressage classes may also be offered in competition.
This video is an example of a Level BI/BS dressage test.
Gymkhana
Gymkhana classes are times events such as Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Figure 8s or Team Relays. Time penalties are given for errors in course.
These videos are examples of a CI level rider completing a Barrel Racing course and then a Pole Bending course.
Working Trail
A set course of obstacles that the rider and horse must work their way over and through with precision. The course will also involve all gaits of the horse that the rider is proficient in. Examples of obstacles include:
- logs or poles to walk over
- serpentines around objects
- mailbox to retrieve objects
- gates to open
- brush to duck under
- bridge platform to ride over
Riders are judged on each obstacle/element out of a score of 10.
What is Adaptive Horsemanship?
This is an unmounted program that teaches how to care for, communicate with and exercise the horse from the ground. This program is appropriate for those that are unable or unwilling to mount for reasons such as weight restrictions, severe fear of heights, inability to weight bear and transfer with assistance or sit without significant support.
Lesson Fees
Private horsemanship lesson = $55
Semi-private horsemanship lesson = $45
Group of 3-4 horsemanship lesson = $40
*This is a adapted recreation activity and not a therapy therefore is not billable to extended health benefits*
Lesson Length
All lessons are scheduled in a 1 hour block.
How do I register for Horsemanship?
Due to limited capacity, we do prioritize applicants with a medical diagnosis or identified social-emotional need by a professional.
If you are brand new to Hope, please complete the following:
If you are a past participant in any program, please contact our office to find our your next steps for registering.
Invoicing Policy
Please visit our Policies page to view the details for invoicing.
If you require assistance with funding, you can view some possible community sponsorship options on the Financial Assistance tab below.
For more information, please call 519-986-1247 and ask for Gretel, or email gstanish@hopehavencentre.org



Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is a powerful and effective approach to experiential learning that includes purposeful interactions with horses. Learning objectives of an EAL program vary widely and are dependent on the goals of the individual or group as well as the expertise of the facilitator.
At Hope Haven, our facilitating team includes a Recreation Therapist and Certified Equestrian Instructors who have additional training in the field of EAL. Our amazing herd of horses complete this team as they work with the facilitators to help participants through the process of personal growth in the areas of social-emotional and life skills development.
Personal development goals through the use of EAL may include the following:
- Empowerment
- Interpersonal Skills
- Self Awareness
- Empathy
- Confidence and Leadership
- Building Positive Relationships
- Establishing Boundaries
- Emotional Regulation
We offer 3 options of EAL programming; Private, Group or Pop-Up Groups. Please refer to the full descriptions below to see what best suits your needs.
Private EAL
5Purpose - To work towards individualized social-emotional or life skills goals
EAL Facilitator - Our Recreation Therapist uses EAL as the primary programming tool however often times other forms of therapeutic modalities may be of benefit as well. For more information on other tools our Recreation Therapist may consider and why, click here
Length of Session: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Duration: follows length of the season
Cost of private (1): $55 per session
Cost of semi-private (2): $45 per session each participant

Group EAL
Purpose: Goals are determined based on the unique characteristics of each group. See descriptions of upcoming courses listed below.
Group Size: Ranging from 4-12 participants
EAL Team: 2 facilitators and multiple horses assisting in the experiential learning process
Length of Session: 1.5 hours
Cost: $40 per session

Pop-Up EAL
Purpose: To gather a group of a specific population for an individually occurring session. Often these sessions will have repeat offerings in the future.
Goals of sessions are specifically chosen based on the population. See full descriptions of upcoming offerings below.
Group Size: Ranging from 4-12 participants
EAL Team: 2 facilitators and multiple horses assisting in the experiential learning process
Length of Session: 2 hours, includes snacks
Cost: $40 per session

Upcoming EAL
TBD
To Register:
- Call: 519-986-1247
- Email: sspeer@hopehavencentre.org
- Note, this is not a billable service under extended mental health benefits as it is not facilitated by a mental health professional, nor is it deemed a clinical treatment.
H.O.P.E (Horses, Opportunities, Progression, Empowerment) is our day program for individuals ages 18 years and older and is designed to take full advantage of all things an equestrian farm has to offer. Individuals will get to experience a variety of adaptive recreation activities, outdoor learning opportunities and adventures, lots of hands on horses as well as invaluable socialization time.
As part of the day, H.O.P.E. participants will take part in an Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) session, as well as have the opportunity to take a group Adaptive Riding lesson. These are two separate programs under the Hope Haven umbrella that our lucky H.O.P.E. group get to experience all in one day!
Program Facilitator
Hope Haven's Recreation Therapist (RT), Shannon Speer, programs and facilitates the day program with the assistance of volunteers as well as our equestrian coaches for certain aspects of the day. As a RT, she is specially trained in assessment and intervention planning towards goals that are recreation, leisure and/or life skills based for individuals with unique needs.
Program Activities
H.O.P.E. is unique in that each activity will have an incorporated goal and facilitative technique in order to guide individual and group experiences from a Recreation Therapy perspective. Activities are chosen to be adaptable to individual needs, promote creativity, exploring, teamwork and active living in an outdoor setting. Check out the many example activities listed below:
Physical Literacy & Wellness Activities
These activities focus on movement, coordination, and overall physical well-being.
Obstacle Courses – Set up a course with cones, poles, or natural elements for participants to navigate on foot.
Balance & Coordination Challenges – Use balance beams, stepping stones, or gentle yoga/stretching.
Outdoor Walks/Nature Exploration – Encourage movement while exploring different textures, sounds, and sights.
Gentle Movement & Stretching – Incorporate seated exercises, resistance bands, or guided stretching.
Light Aerobics – Engaging group games that promote movement and socialization.
Social & Teamwork Activities
These activities encourage communication, problem-solving, and group bonding.
Group Art Projects – Collaborative paintings, murals, or decorating a shared space.
Team-Building Games – Icebreaker activities, cooperative games.
Storytelling & Group Discussions – Sharing personal stories, guided discussions on gratitude or emotions.
Role-Playing & Social Scenarios – Practicing real-life social situations.
Music & Rhythm Games – Group drumming, karaoke, or sing-alongs to encourage self-expression and bonding.
Self-Care & Personal Growth Activities
These activities build independence, confidence, and awareness of personal well-being.
Mindfulness & Relaxation – Deep breathing, guided meditation, or sensory-based relaxation.
Hygiene & Self-Care Workshops – Fun, hands-on activities about grooming, skincare, or wellness habits.
Goal-Setting & Reflection – Creating vision boards or discussing weekly personal goals.
Cooking & Nutrition Education – Preparing simple, healthy snacks and learning about nutrition.
Confidence-Building Challenges – Encouraging participants to set and achieve personal milestones.
Animal & Nature-Based Activities
Activities that promote empathy, responsibility, and connection with animals.
Horse Grooming & Care – Hands-on interaction with brushing, leading, and understanding equine needs.
Sensory Exploration with Horses – Feeling different textures, observing horse movements, and engaging in calming interactions.
Animal-Themed Storytelling – Reading or discussing books about animals, nature, and empathy.
Feeding & Barn Chores – Simple, hands-on tasks like filling water buckets or setting up hay.
Nature-Based Art – Using natural materials like leaves, flowers, and twigs for creative projects.
Recreation & Leisure Activities
These provide enjoyment, relaxation, and encourage engagement in new hobbies.
Simple Gardening Activities – Planting flowers, herbs, or tending to a small garden space.
Themed Days – Cultural exploration days, sensory-friendly celebrations, or seasonal events.
Puzzles & Board Games – Interactive games that encourage critical thinking and social skills.
Music & Dance – Moving to music, creating rhythms, or exploring instruments.
DIY Crafts & Sensory Projects – Hands-on creations such as painting horseshoes, making nature collages, or crafting with textures.
Days & Times
We will be running Mondays and Fridays throughout the Spring, Fall and Winter Seasons. Drop off time is 9:00am and pick up time is 3:30pm. Please meet in our Activity Centre which will be the program's central hub and warming area.Season length is dependent on the season which tends to be anywhere from 9 to 15 weeks long. We ask participants to commit to a full season with the opportunity to provide two away dates that will not be included in your invoice.
Participant Requirements
This program is for young adults, 18 years and older, who have unique needs and abilities and would like to continue to learn and explore in an outdoor environment. If a participant requires hands on assistance with one or more of the following, they will require a support person, organized and/or paid for independently from Hope Haven:
Toiletting
Eating/food prep
Basic dressing
Mobility on even or uneven terrain
Following 1-2 step instructions
Program Fees
We will be asking for full season commitment. Invoices may be paid by monthly instalments.
$50 per day (no Adaptive Riding)
$85 per day (includes a group Adaptive Riding lesson between 9:00am-3:30pm)
Invoicing Policy
Please visit our Policies page to view the details of invoicing.
If you require assistance with funding, you can view some possible community sponsorship options on the Financial Assistance tab below.
How to Register
Please contact our Recreation Coordinator, Shannon Speer, if you are interested in registering. We will do a basic screening over the phone, answer any questions you may have and then do a site visit to meet you if you are new to Hope Haven. Email: sspeer@hopehavencentre.org or 519-986-1247.
March Break Madness is designed to take full advantage of all things equine! This is a week long, full day program where children ages 6-13+ will be able to progress their knowledge of horse care, experience a variety of outdoor recreation activities and have invaluable social interaction with peers.
Please note, riding lessons are not part of the Camp Hope format.
If a participant requires hands on assistance with one or more of the following, they will require a support person, organized and/or paid for independently from Hope Haven.
- toiletting
- eating/food prep
- basic dressing
- mobility on even or uneven terrain
- following 1-2 step instructions
- behaviours that require full time attention and one on one management
If we have Volunteer Leaders In Training (LITs) available during your week of camp we may be able to provide the one on one support, however that is never a guarantee and it must be deemed an appropriate situation.
Ages = 6-13+ (older ages may be considered if they are developmentally younger and therefore would be appropriate for the activities)
Dates = March 16 - 20, 2026
Hours = 9:00-3:30pm
Cost = $350/week
Camp Activities
All camp activities are formulated by our Recreation Therapist and then facilitated with the assistance of our counsellors. Each activity will have an incorporated goal and facilitative technique in order to guide individual and group experiences from a Therapeutic Recreation perspective. Activities are chosen to be adaptable to individual needs, promote creativity, exploring, teamwork and active living in an outdoor setting. Check out the many example activities listed below:
Equine Learning
- Breeds, colours, markings
- Horse health and care; nutrition, fitness, teeth, hooves, hygiene
- Horse communication/behaviour
- Develop your horsemanship
- Stable management
Outdoor Adventures:
- Campfire Fun: roasting, songs and stories
- Winter Scavenger Hunts
- Teepee building
- Snowshoeing
- Tobogganing
- Building in the snow: Snowman, forts, snow sculptures
- Nature identification
- Hayloft games
- Ice Bowling
Arts and Crafts:
- Snow painting
- Bead work
- Coloured ice globes
- Frozen suncatchers
- Bird feed ornaments
Please refer to our FAQ section on our Summer Camp page for more specific details.
Registration & Acceptance
Registration opens January 5th, 2026. Participants will be accepted on a first come first served basis. All participants must have a completed Participant Application and Professional Referral Form.
New applicants will have an intake assessment done if required as per our regular protocol for new participants.
Please Note final day to withdraw and receive a refund is February 20th, 2026.
Contact Shannon our Recreation Coordinator to register or for further inquiries.
Email: sspeer@hopehavencentre.org | Phone: 519-986-1247
2026 Summer Camp Options
Ponies
Children of all abilities will be increasing their equine and farm knowledge as well as experiencing a variety of adaptive recreation activities and outdoor adventures.
Ages = 5 - 13+ (older ages may be considered if they are developmentally younger and therefore would be more appropriate for the activities)
Hours = 9:00am-3:30pm
Cost = $350/week
Weeks offered:
Week 1 = July 6-10
Week 2 = July 13-17
Week 3 = July 20 - 24
Week 5 = Aug 3 - 7
Week 6 = Aug 10 - 14
Week 8 = Aug 24 - 28
**On registration, campers will be limited to 3 weeks and placed on the waiting list for any additional weeks. As of June 30th we will offer any remaining openings to the wait-listed campers.**
Please Note - camp payments are due as well as the final day to withdraw and receive a refund for camp are as per the following dates:
June 30th for all camp weeks.
Clydesdales
Young adults of all abilities will be increasing their equine and farm knowledge as well as experiencing a variety of adaptive recreation activities and outdoor adventures. Activities will be geared towards a more mature participant base.
Ages = 16+
Hours = 9:00am-3:30pm
Cost = $350/week
Weeks offered:
Week 4 = July 27 - 31
Week 7 = Aug 17 - 21
Camp Hope - Summer is designed to take full advantage of all things that summer on an equestrian farm has to offer! We have options for the basic summer camp enthusiast right up to the equine obsessed camper who can't get enough horse content. Click on the camp options below for a full description.
PLEASE NOTE, riding lessons are not part of the Camp Hope format.
If a participant requires hands on assistance with one or more of the following, they will require a support person, organized and/or paid for independently from Hope Haven.
- toiletting
- eating/food prep
- basic dressing
- mobility on even or uneven terrain
- following 1-2 step instructions
- behaviours that require full time attention and one on one management
If we have Volunteer Leaders In Training (LITs) available during your week of camp we may be able to provide the one on one support, however that is never a guarantee and it must be deemed an appropriate situation.
Camp Activities
All camp activities are formulated by our Recreation Therapist and then facilitated with the assistance of our counsellors. Each activity will have an incorporated goal and facilitative technique in order to guide individual and group experiences from a Therapeutic Recreation perspective.
Activities are chosen to be adaptable to individual needs, promote creativity, exploring, teamwork and active living in an outdoor setting. Check out the many example activities listed below
Equine Learning
- Breeds, colours, markings
- Horse health; nutrition, fitness, teeth, hooves, hygiene
- Horse communication
- Jobs of a horse
- Barn chores
Outdoor Adventures
- Exploration hikes
- Campfire roasting, songs and stories
- Fishing at the pond
- Frog habitats
- Nature Scavenger Hunts
- Teepee building
Use of Play
- Imagination Station
- Hope Haven’s Got Talent
- Hide and Seek (with campers and objects)
- Human horse shows
Arts and Crafts
- Mural/ Canvas Painting
- Beading
- Sensory Jar/ Galaxy Jars
- Suncatchers
Horticulture
- Gardening various plants and vegetables
- Berry picking
- Nature prints
- Flower arranging
Adaptive Sports
- Basketball
- Seated Beach Volleyball
- Softball
- Badminton
- Bowling
Camp Director Shannon Speer
Shannon is our full time Recreation Therapist at Hope Haven. For the summer she focuses completely on creating an amazing summer camp experience for 96 lucky campers! For the rest of the year she facilitates our Saddle Up For Success program as well as offering private and group Therapeutic Recreation sessions.
2026 Leader In Training (LIT) Program
Our Leaders In Training (LIT) program is designed for youth ages 14 and up who are interested in working with children with disabilities and unique needs such as Autism, Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Generalized Anxiety and ADHD to name a few.
Our LIT's role will be to shadow the camp staff, and help to engage the participants in a variety of camp activities. This opportunity will have hands-on components that will provide valuable leadership skills as well as allow them to gain confidence taking on new roles and responsibilities.
Contact Shannon our Recreation Coordinator, Camp Hope Director to apply for further inquiries. sspeer@hopehavencentre.org or call (519-986-1247).
Summer Camp Registration
Registration opens February 2nd, 2026. Participants will be accepted on a first come first served basis. All participants must have a completed Participant Application and Professional Referral Form. New applicants will also have an intake assessment done if required as per our regular protocol for new participants.
Contact Shannon our Recreation Coordinator to register or for further inquiries.
Email: sspeer@hopehavencentre.org | Phone: 519-986-1247
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the camp integrated?
We encourage all abilities to attend and recreate together. Programming will be adapted towards individual as well as group needs.
Who provides the food?
Lunch and snacks to be provided by each camper independently in consideration of any food allergies that may exist among participants. Water bottle refills will be offered by Hope Haven, however to minimize use of the water coolers we encourage campers to arrive with a full bottle each day.
How many campers per week?
We accept 12 campers maximum per week of camp. This is subject to change according to the needs of the group.
How many counsellors?
There will be 3 mature counsellors as well as our Camp Director who is our Recreation Therapist.
How many weeks can I sign up for?
Campers can sign up for 3 weeks. Following, participants will be placed on the wait-list.
What is Saddle Up For Success?
This is a research based program developed for elementary and high school students with disabilities and other diverse needs. Research shows that equestrian programming provides these students the opportunity to develop stronger self-confidence, self regulation and coping skills so they can better deal with emotions and behaviours related to anxiety, anger, fear, and frustration. Simply having horses present in the same environment has shown to increase social engagement and provide a positive platform for learning new skills.
Programmed and facilitated by our Recreation Therapist with assistance from our certified equestrian instructors and community of volunteers, the learning and experiential goals of each unique group will determine the activities planned for your Saddle Up For Success program.
**Note - this program does not involve mounted riding.**
Objectives of the Program
Through purposeful programming with horses, we will:
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Develop team building skills
- Encourage positive social interactions
- Explore a variety of communication strategies
- Explore emotions and behaviours
- Promote outdoor experiential learning
- Experience a sense of responsibility, respect and empathy towards other living things
Program Format
Groups of 8-12 students are identified by teachers or administration who could benefit from this program. Frequency of the program is one day a week for a consecutive 4-8 weeks. Below is an outline of the daily schedule.
9:50am: Arrival
10:00am: Experiential Equine Learning = Equine health, nutrition, management, communication, emotions - Correlations with human health and wellness.
11:15am: Break 1
11:30am: Equine Assisted Learning = Experiential approach to learning using unmounted work with horses - Covering all of our Program Objectives listed above.
12:30pm: Break 2
12:45pm: Recreation and Leisure Based Activities = Adventure based learning activities such as exploring various trails, environment and animal habitats, sensory based arts & crafts and more!
2:00pm: Departure
What is the cost?
All student fees have been generously sponsored through a variety of private donors. The only group cost may be transportation if a bus is required. We encourage schools to source out transportation sponsors such as local Rotary or Optimist clubs, private foundations or even local businesses.
How do you register?
The lead teacher will confirm the group participants, days and times. Well before the program starts, all participants must submit a completed Participant Application (by the parent/guardian) as well as a Professional Referral Form (completed by their classroom teacher or Educational Assistant). Links to these forms will be provided to the lead teacher once your group is confirmed.
Contact Shannon our Recreation Coordinator to register or for further inquiries.
Email: sspeer@hopehavencentre.org | Phone: 519-986-1247
Funding
For families and individuals in need of a little extra financial support, we have compiled some community and government funding options that are available to apply to. Please follow the direct links to learn more about them and submit an application.
YOUTH
Canadian Tire Jumpstart
Jumpstart’s core purpose is to enrich the lives of children in need (4-18 years old) through sports and physical activity. They assist with the costs associated with registration, equipment and/or transportation.
Click here to bring you directly to the Jumpstart online application.
Grey National Child Benefit (NCB)
Applicants must reside in Grey County, have household earnings less than $50,000 per year and children under 18 years of age residing with you on a regular basis.
Click here to view the details and full application through the YMCA website.
The application may also be picked up at the YMCA or Grey County municipal offices.
Beaver Valley Outreach
Based out of Thornbury Ontario, the BVO has recreational funding available for children under 18 years, who are residents of the Town of Blue Mountains with household earnings less than $40,000 per year.
Click here to take you directly to their website and application.
Youthreach
Youth recreational funding is available through youthreach for Simcoe county residents that are facing financial barriers.
Click here to apply online through their website.
ADULT
Passport Program
Individuals with developmental disabilities that are 18 years of age or older may receive funding for recreational programs through Passport. This program is funded through the government of Ontario and administered by your local Developmental Service Ontario office.
Click here for more information if you live in Grey or Bruce counties.
Click here for more information if you live in Simcoe county.
OTHER
Need More Information?
Explore these guides developed by Disability Credit Canada Inc. for more information.
Comprehensive Disability Tax Credit Guide
What Is Child Disability Tax Credit and Do You Qualify?
Questions?
Please contact Gretel our Program Coordinator for any questions or assistance with funding.
Phone 519-986-1247 or email gstanish@hopehavencentre.org.
All new program participants are required to fill out a Participant Application as well as a Professional Referral Form.
Online Participant Application
Online Professional Referral Form
Other Forms
Online General Waivers & Indemnity Release















