Erik’s Ranch & Retreats announced today its new location at 23495 Sage Avenue in Belle Plaine for all riding programs. As of June 10th, Erik’s Ranch & Retreats Therapeutic Riding Program and Horseback Riding Camp will operate from the new location. Erik’s Equine Center at Belle Plaine offers many enhancements to the riding program: • Only 40 minutes from Erik’s Retreat in Edina • Easy access from Hwy 169 • Larger barn for increased riding opportunities • Pristine outdoor arena and pastures • Wooded riding trail • Increased lesson time availability • Ability to host events for additional revenue “We’re working to ensure a flawless move for our riders, their families and our extensive list of volunteers who are instrumental in ensuring a positive and enjoyable riding experience for all involved,” said riding program co-director, Sophia Nordberg. “We are excited about the change and the growth opportunities our new location will offer.” Erik’s Ranch & Retreats currently offers a Special Needs Therapeutic Riding Program open to individuals with special needs ages five to 35 at reduced rates. The program uses specifically designed horseback riding lessons to help people with a range of disabilities. Riding horses addresses several key symptoms affiliated with autism and other special needs. Riding program participants work on communication and social skills, sensory skills, motor skills, and responses to verbal cues and external stimuli. For class times and registration or to volunteer, visit www.eriksranch.org/ridingprogram.html New this year, the program is also offering Summer Riding Camps. The weeklong sessions will be held June 10 – August 1 and space is still available. Riding camps are open to beginner and intermediate riders ages 7-13. For more information, visit: www.eriksranch.org/ridingcamp.html About Erik’s Ranch & Retreats Erik’s Ranch & Retreats is a 501c(3) nonprofit corporation founded in 2008, with locations in Edina, Minn., and Paradise Valley, Mont. Using its guiding principles of lifelong learning, individual community building and bidirectional integration, Erik’s Ranch & Retreats provides safe and unequaled living, working, social and recreational environments for adults with autism. Our commitment is that each of our residents lives a rewarding life on his/her own terms, experiencing dignity, compassion and the joy of continuing possibility. To learn more about Erik’s Ranch & Retreats and Erik’s Minnesota Adventures visit, www.eriksranch.org
