PALS is a non-profit in Bloomington, Indiana that aims to help people of all ages and walks of life through equine therapy. The organization has programs for children, veterans, recovering addicts, and more. PALS is constantly growing and adapting its services to best serve the community and its needs.

They’ve recently adapted their veteran services to meet the desires of the clients. The program is now two eight-week sections, with one on the ground and one with riding lessons. Chris Herring, PALS executive director, aims to add to the community with each program the organization holds.

One demographic that PALS is proud to support is children. Whether it’s children with mental or physical disabilities, or at-risk youth, the organization aims to increase confidence and help children through equine therapy. Herring states that she personally has found peace in working with horses, and she wants to provide the same for others. Her personal mission is to provide that sense of comfort for people with all kinds of backgrounds.

Nine year-old Jimmy Adduci is one child who has benefited from the programs that PALS provides. When Jimmy was three years old, he was diagnosed with autism and also has a chromosomal duplication. In seeking out therapies post-diagnosis, they were recommended to PALS.

Jimmy has been in lessons for five years and has progressed from ground lessons to riding almost every horse in the stables. He feels a sense of social belonging that he hasn’t necessarily found in other places. His twin sister is often at gymnastics while his older sister participates in swim meets, but traditional sports can be challenging for Jimmy.

But he’s found a home at PALS with the horses, newfound friendships and the support from his family. His mom notes that this is a place that is truly his, which is an important distinction for Jimmy. He doesn’t have to try to fit in at PALS, because he does fit in, just the way he is. This is just one of many stories that PALS has to tell. The organization is gaining in popularity, but they are still working hard to ensure that their mission remains true — that they are able to make a place for everyone in the community, from ages 3 to their late 80s.

Places like this exist all around the world, but Bloomington is a community that truly benefits from the non-profit. In a small college town, you’d never know that PALS is just 15 minutes down the road. The horses receive extensive training, as do the volunteers. This is all an important piece of the puzzle to ensure that every client of PALS has a positive experience.

The experiences and stories that come from PALS evolve daily, but the important parts remain the same. Equine therapy is a useful tool for everyone, no matter their challenges.