Thanks to a Variety Grant, Rhythms of Grace is opening new pathways to strength, independence, and confidence for children living with special needs.
The grant funded essential adaptive riding equipment that allows children to safely experience horseback riding as part of occupational therapy, along with critical safety improvements for the horses and volunteers who make each session possible. Among these improvements was the installation of new LED lighting in the indoor arena - an important upgrade that helps prevent stumbles and keeps both riders and horses safe as they transition from outdoor light to indoor space.
Rhythms of Grace is a volunteer-driven nonprofit serving central Iowa through equine-assisted psychotherapy, occupational therapy incorporating the horse, and therapeutic and adaptive horseback riding. Each child’s journey is unique, but the goal is the same: healing, growth, and hope.
In 2025, two of their youngest riders - Lillian and Thomas - beautifully illustrate the impact of Variety’s support.
Lillian’s Story
When Lillian first came to Rhythms of Grace, she required full support while riding. She began her sessions lying on her tummy, with an adult riding alongside her for stability. Today, she sits upright on her horse, Crystal, riding with confidence and minimal assistance.
“The pictures speak for themselves,” her family shares. “We’ve watched Lillian grow from a timid little girl into a strong, confident rider.”
After 34 months of being told she may never walk, Lillian began crawling - an incredible milestone made possible through gains in balance, coordination, and core strength developed on horseback. Her mobility, once completely dependent, is now opening into independence.
The adaptive Inky Dinky saddle, purchased through the Variety grant, will allow Lillian to continue building strength, coordination, and her deep bond with Crystal.
“I have no doubt in my mind,” her family says, “that one day it will be her walking that we are celebrating.”
Thomas’s Story
Since beginning occupational therapy using the movement of the horse at Rhythms of Grace, Thomas has made remarkable progress.
He has gone from taking one or two independent steps to walking 12 or more steps on his own. His balance, trunk rotation, and endurance have improved dramatically, allowing him to stand independently for longer periods of time.
“Hippotherapy has been an obvious contributor to his increased independence and mobility,” his family shares. “We are eager to continue at Rhythms of Grace to help Thomas become an independent, functional walker.”
Creating Safer, Stronger Futures
This Variety Grant is helping Rhythms of Grace increase rider independence, build physical strength, and enhance safety across our adaptive riding programs. With professional therapists, instructors, dedicated volunteers, and trusted horse partners, children like Lillian and Thomas are reaching new heights - one ride at a time.
Together, we are turning possibility into progress and hope into movement.
