Faq
When did BraveHearts start?
- BraveHearts was incorporated into the state of Illinois in 2002, by founder Marge Gunnar and the program began in 2003. BraveHearts began serving Veterans in 2007.
Accreditations/Accolades
- 501c3 nonprofit organization
- PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center
- American Hippotherapy Association facility member center
- Special Olympics Illinois Equestrian Games hosting facility
- EQUUS Foundation Guardian
Services Offered
- Outpatient Clinic: Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology
- Veteran & Veteran Family Services
- Therapeutic Riding
- Volunteer Opportunities
Therapeutic Riding vs. Hippotherapy?
- The main difference is that therapeutic riding is a recreational activity instructed by a certified PATH Intl. instructor with the goal to learn or improve riding skills. The cost of these services are self-pay.
- Hippotherapy is a treatment strategy that is used by a physical, occupational or speech therapist to address specific physical, occupational and speech goals by using the movement of the therapy horse to assist in meeting the goals. A prescription for physical, occupational or speech therapy must be provided. This is primarily billed to insurance, but self-pay options are available.
Do you take donated horses?
- We accept sound horses only and will evaluate if they will work in our program. Interested in donating a horse? Complete This Form
Can I visit?
- All visits must be pre-scheduled. If interested in setting up a visit, please call ahead to be sure we can have a staff member dedicated to answering your questions during your visit.
How many people do you serve weekly?
- Average 75 therapeutic riding lessons
- Average 40 hippotherapy sessions
- Average 115 Veteran/Veteran Family lessons
How many horses do you have?
- 50+ horses between both facilities.
How can I volunteer?
- Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age to volunteer independently
- Sign up for a volunteer training by calling 815-765-2113 or complete the inquiry form located on the Volunteer Page.
How can I intern?
- All interns must complete our online application and will be accepted based on our availability and ability to meet your requirements.
How much does it cost?
- Therapeutic Riding costs range based on type of lesson (group, semi-private, or private) and length of lesson (30 minutes or 60 minutes). Costs range from $45-$80 per lesson based on type and length. Rates are subject to change please see our EAS Manager.
- Our outpatient services using hippotherapy as a treatment strategy and equine assisted psychotherapy is billable through insurance, therefore rate is based on insurance.
- Veterans participate without charge. One accompanying Veteran family member may also participate at no cost with the Veteran present.
- EVERY participant at BraveHearts is subsidized in some capacity.