History of CHAPS

CHAPS Equine Assisted Therapy is the product of the void left in the community when a program offering therapeutic riding in Sheridan closed in 2002. The first organizational meeting for persons interested in equine assisted therapy was held in August 2003 and at that time a feasibility study, surveys and interviews were developed to determine whether or not this type of program would be supported by the community. The response was resoundingly positive! We went to work to develop a Board of Directors and community committees to create programs, fundraise, and select a facility, staff and horses to offer the service to Sheridan and Johnson County community members.

The founding board of directors included Patty Bell-Lewis, Heather Bledsoe, Elizabeth Eckert, Tom Kelly, Mike Sager, Sharyn Siler, Sue Suddith, and Jeanne Wheeler-Loveland. Along with members of the community, this group worked to develop standard operating procedures and guidelines that were consistent with NARHA recommendations and Americans with Disabilities Act regulations. In January, 2004, officers were elected. Nonprofit status was granted in June 2004, and the first fundraiser was held over the Sheridan WYO Rodeo weekend in July. Following that, the first annual Nite at the Races gala event debuted in October, and CHAPS was off and running with a bank account and budget.

CHAPS secured it’s facility at 501 US HWY 14 E in November 2004. The former site of the Ranch Willow Bed and Breakfast, the center features a 5 stall barn with feed room, tack room and office possibilities. A mid-sized indoor arena, outdoor arena and turn out, with 400 acres available for riding make this venue a comfortably sized first home for CHAPS.

In November, 2004, Sue Suddith resigned from the Board of Directors and was hired to be CHAPS’ first Executive Director. CHAPS opened its doors to clients in January 2005. Beginning with scholarship recipients from the LaRue Young Foundation, we offered services to 7 children with disabilities ranging from developmental disabilities to cerebral palsy. Beginning with 2 horses and a staff of 3 part time therapy instructors, CHAPS has grown to 43 clients, 7 horses, and 3 Therapy Instructors (1 full time and 2 part time). We have become a member center of NARHA and all therapy instructors have completed or are in the process of becoming NARHA Registered Level Therapy Instructors. Our original short term goals are almost realized.

Other short term goals include securing a truck and trailer for transporting horses and competing in local rodeos and horse shows.

Long range goals include obtaining a facility of our own and partnering with an institution of higher learning to offer a certificate or degree program in Equine Assisted Therapy. Our goals with NARHA are to become a Premier Accredited Center by 2009, and to have one therapy instructor advance to Advanced Level Instructor Certification by 2009.