Who We Are…

EqX is one of very few equestrian programs in the U.S. that has certified instructors dedicated to providing a wide variety of horsemanship lessons, while successfully integrating both able-bodied and adaptive students, from children to adults, into the same lessons.

Formed in August of 2009, EqX is Whidbey Island’s ONLY 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is “member-run and “member-operated”.  The EqX program utilizes the well known benefits of the equine/human bond to improve the quality of life of children and adults of “all ages and abilities” through safe equine-related activities,   And we do this in an environment of community and Member involvement and interaction.

EqX is already making a big difference in the lives of the young and the old, the frail and the robust, the riders and the non-riders, with the motivating help of some very special horses and volunteers.  With over 40 years of combined teaching experience, EqX’s certified instructors provide residents of Whidbey Island and the Puget Sound area an “all-inclusive” horsemanship program in both central and north Whidbey Island.

MISSION

The mission of Equestrian Crossings is to provide a high quality horsemanship program to all ages, abilities, and disabilities in a safe, caring environment.

PURPOSE

The purpose of Equestrian Crossings is to provide equine related activities suitable for people regardless of age or ability, and to do this in an environment of community involvement and interaction. All Equestrian Crossings-related programs are based on experience and relationship with the horse, and utilize the inherent potential for the realization of self-confidence, emotional acceptance, self awareness, enhanced communication, development of balance, proper muscular activity, neural reflexes and other benefits that are available from the equine/human interaction. Equestrian Crossings is established to serve local Island County, Washington, and surrounding communities.

GOALS

Our goals are to provide equine-related activities which may include:

• Beginning, intermediate, and advanced riding and horsemanship in its various forms;
• Adaptive Horsemanship, which may include: Ground assisted Horsemanship, Physical and other Therapies, and equine-assisted Psychological and Emotional Therapies;
• Individual, Family and Community social events including, seminars, demonstrations and other learning opportunities, student demonstrations, competitions, and recognition ceremonies;
• A grass roots, member-operated organization with voting, and volunteer committees and ground level participation;
• Scholarships, to provide the programs to everyone who may benefit, regardless of status or financial ability;
• Opportunity for experience and certification in various equine-related disciplines;
• A staff consisting of certified and experienced Instructors and/or licensed health care professionals;
• Equines well trained, appropriate, and when required, certified in their discipline.