Nonprofit organizations across our community are often the quiet forces behind tangible change, stepping in where government and businesses fall short. In fact, there were 22,743 nonprofit organizations in the state of Illinois as of 2016, according to the Illinois State Bar Association, and that number has continued to grow at a steady rate over the past decade.

While these organizations take many forms, one stands out in our community for its powerful and unique reach. Neighboring Lake Forest is home to Equestrian Connection, a nonprofit that provides hippotherapy, a type of therapeutic treatment through horseback riding for children and adults with emotional, mental or physical challenges or disabilities. By combining human and animal connection, this organization has created a form of healing that is as unconventional as it is impactful.

For Ms. Diana Schnell, a cofounder of the nonprofit, the idea for Equestrian Connection came from both personal experience and a clear gap in the area.

“When I saw what equine therapy was doing for those with special needs of all types, physical, mental and emotional, I knew we had to start a program in the Lake County area,” Ms. Schnell said.

However, at the time, equine therapy was not popular or widely accessible, only adding to the need for action.

“The only program around was in Wisconsin, and they went out of business,” Schnell said. “Most of the clients, including my [children], were from our area, so I figured it would not be that difficult and would fill a great need in our community.”

In October of 2001, Schnell began her mission by co-founding Equestrian Connection. However, things weren’t always easy, especially in the beginning.

“We began in a run-down barn paying a large amount of rent, with four horses and 20 clients,” Ms. Schnell said.

However, through 25 years of dedication and hard work, Equestrian Connection has grown in size and scope. Today, the organization is made up of a comprehensive staff, 24 horses and over 300 clients annually. Generally, this growth happened on a local level as fellow members of the community advocate for Equestrian Connection’s cause.

“We have grown by word of mouth, physician and therapist referrals and the length of time they have been at the program tells us we are doing something effective for all,” Ms. Schnell said.

Through her time at Equestrian Connection, Schnell has seen the individual impact that her organization has had on people, young and old.

“One of our clients with Down [Syndrome] took his first steps in our office after his ride,” Ms. Schnell said. “It was so moving.”

The programs that Equestrian Connection offers don’t just help those with developmental or physical disabilities, but people of all ages as well. One example was an 80-year-old veteran whose only wish was to ride a horse again.

“We made it happen with his family‘s permission, and he spoke of his time in the service, his past as a polo player and how happy he was on the horse with [one of] our therapists at his side,” Ms. Schnell said. “That was the last time we saw him, but he had the biggest smile on his face and joy in his heart.”

Not only is Equestrian Connection committed to helping people of all ages and backgrounds, but they are committed to making their therapy affordable.

“We are unique in that we provide over 90 people with therapy financial assistance and actually do not charge anyone the total cost,” Ms. Schnell said.

This unique and stand-out organization is completely committed to helping clients grow and improve as much as possible. Part of this commitment is through their meaningful usage of donations.

“100 percent of our donations go directly to the people and programs we offer. Donors know they are making an impact on the lives of those with special needs in the community,” Ms. Schnell said. “We are forever grateful and need their support to succeed in our mission.”

Together, these moments reflect the true mission and purpose of Equestrian Connection, creating opportunities for joy and progress amongst their clients. What began as a small effort and a large dream has grown into a source of hope for individuals and families across the community. For Ms. Schnell, the success of Equestrian Connection is not only defined by the number of donations, numbers or size of the organization, but through each life they have changed one ride at a time.

“It does my heart good to see our families who are so grateful for what we are doing for them,” Ms. Schnell said.