The Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center (ATRC) was founded in 1986 and is located on 15 acres in the beautiful South Toe Valley. ATRC is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency and has 3 Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship Certified instructors. Additionally physical, occupational and speech therapists are often involved, either hands on or acting as consultants. 

Mission: The Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center (ATRC) provides therapeutic horseback riding for persons with physical, cognitive, and/or emotional challenges in a safe, structured environment.

Therapeutic Horsemanship Certified instructors

2017 Board of Directors

Miika Rolett – Executive Director

Jan Sparks – President                Retired Early Childhood Intervention Specialist

Sally McCoy – Vice President       Physical Therapist

Katie Bernstein – Sec/ Treas        Self-employed Artist

John Hall –                                    Pastor, Retired High School Educator

Thomas Heimerl –                        Retired Pipe Fitter & FIFA Soccer Referee

Dr. Taylor Townsend –                 Self-employed Dentist

Tina Sink -                                    Self-employed Business Owner

Jim Wiedenhaupt –                      Self-employed Contractor

Don Wisch –                                 Retired Business Owner

Sherry Weeks –                            Retired Educator

Stephanie Johnson –                   Parent Representative

Dr. Meri Stella –                            Celo Health Center Physician

Cheryl Craigie -                             Retired Broadcasting & Health Care Executive