The therapeutic/medical model integrates principles of medical and/or psychological development into various uses of the horse. In this case, the use of medical practitioners such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, speech therapists and others become an important part of the program. A specialized form of therapy called Hippotherapy is sometimes employed by physical, occupational and speech therapists who are trained in this area.

RJ Ranch uses an integrated approach, involving all three of the above approaches. RJ Ranch will use a team approach to therapeutic riding. The team consists of some or all of the following:riding instructors, volunteers, educational specialists, behavioral specialists, and medical professionals. Through our sport riding program, children, youth and adults with or without physical and/or developmental disabilities improve physical health, relax tight muscles, increase balance, build muscle strength, sharpen hand/eye coordination, improve social skills, and gain a sense of control and self-confidence as the rider experiences a freedom never felt before.

RJ Ranch will offer services in conjunction with the Schools IEP programs, local mental health and substance abuse agencies, local physicians with cancer patients and local physical therapist with clients with physical disabilities. RJ Ranch will offer a teenage work study program. Designed to facilitate greater self-esteem and accountability, the workdays consist of maintenance chores, study programs, assisting instructors with physically challenged riders, and learning horsemanship skills. The "at risk" teenagers receive a bonus for fulfilling a summer contract.

RJ Ranch & Riding Center is located at 17035 Hwy 95 S, approximately a quarter of a mile south of Grangeville just before Fish Hatchery Road. The Center will have an outdoor arena, an indoor arena, and two boarding facilities. Each horse will be trained and schooled by experienced handlers. Services will be provided year round.

Our mission is to improve the mind, body and souls of children and adults with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy and to be an inspiration and educational resource to the therapeutic riding profession, locally, regionally and nationally. We will work to increase awareness of disabilities in the community.

RJ Ranch goals are to provide an environment where riders can realize their potential through empowerment and independence, foster and encourage the unique bond between the horses and the participants and the therapeutic value, and support the development of therapeutic riding.

Our core values include:
•Provide safe, effective and fun therapeutic horseback riding to individuals who are physically, mentally and emotionally challenged.
•Provide a compassionate, caring nurturing and respectful environment.
•Provide an accessible program to help overcome physical, mental, emotional and financial barriers.
•Provide a safe, clean and fun facility and environment for horse and rider.
•Provide expertise and knowledge of hippotherapy, therapeutic riding and other equine activities.
•Provide strong sustainable organization through fiscal responsibility.