Denver-By 1969, therapeutic horsemanship worldwide had for many years been assisting individuals with special needs reach their health and wellness goals. In the United States the need to organize for the betterment of the field was identified, and in November 1969 the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) was formed. NARHA changed its name to the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) in 2011 to accommodate the evolution of the field, and PATH Intl. has grown into a globally recognized resource in equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) in those short 50 years.
The PATH Intl. mission is to promote safety and optimal outcomes in EAAT for individuals with special needs. By setting the highest standards of safety and excellence for center accreditation and instructor certification and pursuing innovative programing and services, the association has enabled the life-changing power of the horse to benefit hundreds of thousands of lives. Building on a half-century of solid accomplishment, PATH Intl. is continuing to raise the bar for its membership and center participants with an ever-evolving, progressive level of quality while advocating for the highest degree of care for its equine partners. Today a professional staff of 20, hundreds of member volunteer leaders from all over the country-including some of its early supporters-help run, govern and grow the organization so it may continue to be an industry leader.
Last year at 873 PATH Intl. Member Centers, nearly 69,000 children and adults, including more than 6,700 veterans, found improved health, wellness, fun and a sense of pride and independence through involvement with horses. 62,000 center volunteers, 4,776 PATH Intl. Certified Professionals and 7,943 equines help make it all possible.
Want to know more about the history of PATH Intl. and learn how the association evolved from a group of 23 trailblazers to a network of over 8,000 change-makers and what milestones the association and its members achieved along the way? Please enjoy the special 50th anniversary issue of the association's member magazine, PATH Intl. Strides.
Anniversary logo available, please contact if interested.
About PATH Intl.:
The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International(r) (PATH Intl(r).) was formed in 1969 to promote safety and optimal outcomes in equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) for individuals with special needs. At 873 member centers, nearly 69,000 children and adults, including more than 6,700 veterans, may find improved health, wellness, fun and a sense of pride and independence through involvement with horses. Therapeutic horsemanship at member centers may include hippotherapy, equine-facilitated mental health, driving, interactive vaulting, trail riding, competition, ground work and stable management. Through a wide variety of educational resources, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful EAAT programs. There are nearly 62,000 volunteers, 4,776 instructors, 7,943 equines and thousands of contributors from all over the world helping people at PATH Intl. Member Centers.
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