The Bridle Up Hope equestrian center in Mapleton, Utah offers young women and girls a chance to build confidence and practical skills through horse riding.
Founder Janis Lindley founded Bridle Up Hope with the aim of helping young women overcome challenges and develop life skills.
At the center, participants learn not only horse-riding skills but also communication, resilience and teamwork through structured sessions.
The program encourages learning beyond just what can be gleaned from riding lessons, Molly Steiner, an instructor at Bridle Up Hope Mapleton, said. Horses can sense a rider’s emotions, which challenges participants to manage their feelings and build trust, she said.
"Week by week, you can see the changes as students gain confidence and communication skills," she said. "A girl who starts out hesitant often becomes more comfortable and assertive as she learns to guide her horse."
Each session at Bridle Up Hope involves exercises that develop practical skills, such as maintaining focus, managing anxiety and practicing patience, according to the website.
By interacting with horses, students are encouraged to reflect on these skills and see how they apply beyond the barn, Steiner said.
"The real progress shows in their willingness to try new things and stay engaged," Steiner explained. "These girls often come away with a new sense of what they’re capable of."
Maleah Taylor, another instructor, has seen similar transformations among participants.
"I work here because I love horses, but seeing how it helps these girls is what keeps me coming back," she said.
Lindley noted on her website that working with horses offers lessons for both participants and staff.
"The goal of Bridle Up Hope is to give girls an environment where they can practice these skills and gain a sense of accomplishment. We focus on practical skills that build confidence, not just with horses but in all areas of life," she said.
Lindley's vision for Bridle Up Hope in Mapleton is to create a program that leaves a lasting impact, she said.
As a mother of eight and grandmother to 25, she envisioned Bridle Up Hope as a way to contribute to her community, she said on her website.
"For me, this center is about creating a space where young women can practice important skills that will benefit them long-term," she said.
For more information about Bridle Up Hope, visit their website.