Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society is a non-profit registered Charity that provides a safe, supervised riding experience for children, youth and adults with physical disabilities, special needs or children and youth at-risk. Riding a horse gently and rhythmically provides movement similar to walking.
“In Lane Holmes’ memory we believe that… For every rider there is a horse… For every horse there is a rider… And for every horse and rider there is a journey”
To promote healthy minds, bodies and spirits for children and adults who would benefit from equine supported experiences. The Society consists of a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, a group of trained volunteers and a volunteer Board.
We currently run an eight week program in the Spring and Fall. We believe that small class sizes provide the opportunity for students to receive the most benefit, therefore, we limit each class to three students. On average we have about 18 students per session.
We encourage our students to engage in good horsemanship by giving them the opportunity to groom and tack up their horse. Students are assigned one to three volunteers based on their ability and are guided through a series of exercises on horseback. These range from basic horsemanship skills like steering with reins and legs to throwing balls into buckets and hoops.
Get to know the passionate people who make our mission possible. Each team member brings unique skills and a shared commitment to empowering riders and building community.
![[headshot] image of customer (for a green tech/cleantech company)](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/696a6f976cd278c76403b7a2/696a7dfc15570610461f85e6_Profile%201.jpg)
![[headshot] image of customer (for an author & writer)](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/696a6f976cd278c76403b7a2/69989a3db678e4afc150b3d0_jacques-bopp-NDUfajkNA6I-unsplash.jpg)
![[headshot] image of customer (for a animal welfare nonprofit)](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/696a6f976cd278c76403b7a2/696a736c231334f39b8e3d12_1afcc4e7-6030-4ffc-8738-51ebe660418c.avif)
Laurie Messner’s passion for horses began early through her family’s horse boarding business, where she learned from respected horse professionals. Her love of riding grew into working and showing Quarter Horses for a leading breeder, along with time spent in the U.S. cutting horse industry learning from natural horsemanship leaders. After returning to Nanton, Alberta, she discovered a love for teaching riding lessons and working with children. Laurie and her husband Randy later founded Winning Strides, offering boarding, lessons, and quality horse care. She also founded Journeys Therapeutic Riding Society, providing riding opportunities for children and adults with special needs. With over 30 years in the industry, Laurie remains focused on horsemanship, horse welfare, and helping riders build confidence and skill. Winning Strides continues to support riders through lessons, clinics, and programs in Open Horse Showing and Ranch Horse Versatility.
Robin Beatty is a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator known for her strong organizational skills and genuine passion for supporting others. With a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach, Robin ensures that volunteers feel prepared, valued, and connected to the mission of the organization. Her enthusiasm and commitment create a welcoming environment where individuals are empowered to contribute meaningfully. After finding Journeys through a friend in 2024. After a few years of being a volunteer Robin took the plunge and became our the Volunteer Coordinator!
Horses are the heart and soul of therapeutic riding programs—steady, intuitive partners who seem to understand exactly what their riders need. With their calm, patient temperaments and gentle nature, these incredible animals create a safe and encouraging environment where confidence can grow one ride at a time.
Many of these horses come to the program thanks to generous, caring owners who donate them so they can continue making a difference. It’s not just a new job—it’s a meaningful second career. After years of other work, therapeutic riding often becomes a kind of “retirement with purpose,” where horses can enjoy a slower pace while still engaging both mind and body.
In return, they receive exceptional care, from attentive feeding routines to regular health checks and lots of love from staff and volunteers. They’re not just lesson horses—they’re cherished partners, trusted teachers, and everyday heroes with hooves.
Send us a request to evaluate your horse to see if they would be a fit for a Theraputic Horse with JTRS.
