While SonRise is not a religious organization, our program is based on Christian morals and values. We do not require our volunteers or participants to believe in those core values, but we expect that they will respect and uphold them. Faith at SonRise is lived not preached. Because the Board of Directors, Staff, and Instructors believe in God and the saving grace of His Son Jesus Christ, it is our greatest desire to serve God by the demonstration of our faith through action. It is our highest honor to serve children and families of all backgrounds. No participant is ever denied our services on a religious or ethnic basis.
THE HEART OF SONRISE
WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT
CREATING
CONNECTIONS
BUILDING
COMMUNITY
ENCOURAGING
GROWTH
BRINGING
COMFORT
WHO WE SERVE
SonRise serves a broad spectrum of special needs. Some children will always require assistance while riding, while others will develop higher levels of horsemanship.
ADD/ ADHD
Cancer
Down Syndrome
Muscular Dystrophy
Autism
Cerebral Palsy
Epilepsy
Scoliosis
Bipolar Disorder
Cystic Fibrosis
Family Struggles
Spinal Cord Injuries
Blindness
Depression
Learning Disabilities
Tourette Syndrome
Brain Injury
Developmental Delays
Multiple Sclerosis
Youth “At-Risk”
Regardless of individual needs, each child finds a loving and accepting community through SonRise. Whatever the challenge, our mission is to help these children thrive through the benefits of our therapeutic horsemanship programs.

SonRise Equestrian Foundation was founded in December 2005 by Melanie Buerke Bartoletti.
SonRise offers four weekly programs free of charge.

WHY HORSES?
As prey animals with a herd instinct, horses have a unique ability to provide feedback to body language and emotions. They identify and respond to leadership and authority, and offer a non-judgmental and forgiving relationship.
Physical Benefits
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Fine & Gross Motor Skills
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Balance & Coordination
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Posture & Body Awareness
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Muscle Development
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Range of Motion
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Flexibility
Cognitive Benefits
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Self Control
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Sequential Learning
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Verbal Skills
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Following Directions
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Focus & Attention Span
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Sensory Integration
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Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic
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Problem solving
Social Benefits
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Collaboration & Teamwork
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Communication
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Relationships & Solidarity With Peers
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Positive Role Models
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Respect & Manners
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Fun!
Psychological Benefits
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Confidence
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Trust
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Impulse Control
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Boundaries
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Work Ethic
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Personal Responsibility
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Leadership
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Empathy
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Patience
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Stress Reduction