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.