Texarkana, Texas – On Saturday, the Runnin’ WJ Ranch opened its doors to celebrate 25 years of providing equine‑assisted activities to children and adults with special needs. Director Brittany Rogers highlighted the milestone with an open‑house event that also launched the ranch’s back‑to‑horse therapy classes, which resume each October.

Equine‑assisted therapy benefits the whole family

Rogers explained that the ranch’s programs create “small miracles” daily. The rhythmic movement of a horse mirrors the natural gait of a person walking, offering therapeutic benefits for riders facing muscular, emotional, social and physical challenges. In addition, interacting with horses supports speech development and communication skills as participants converse with peers during sessions.

Community impact on a 70‑acre campus

Set on 70 acres in Texarkana, the nonprofit has become a trusted resource for the local special‑needs community. Beyond offering regular riding lessons, the ranch sponsors events that bring families together and showcases the healing power of the human‑horse bond.

One parent, Shelby Scott, shared how the program transformed her 5‑year‑old daughter Lyla’s life. After just one season of horse‑therapy, Scott said Lyla showed noticeable improvements and she has already re‑enrolled her for the upcoming season. “I would highly recommend this program to other parents of special‑needs children,” Scott added.

Looking ahead

With the upcoming class schedule, the ranch aims to expand its reach, welcoming more families to experience the therapeutic benefits of riding. Rogers emphasized that the ranch’s mission remains rooted in compassion, community service, and the belief that every rider can achieve personal growth through partnership with these gentle animals.

As the ranch marks this quarter‑century milestone, it continues to embody the spirit of service that has made it a cornerstone of Texarkana’s special‑needs support network.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.