A Brief History…
1996: Friends for Therapeutic Equine Activities was founded and achieved not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status. FTEA began serving participants at Kingsway Farm in Winfield, Illinois, offering horseback riding classes for individuals with special needs. Center accreditation through PATH Intl. (then NARHA) was obtained.
2009: The Ron and Patti Mehling Scholarship Program was founded, allowing individuals requiring financial assistance to participate at FTEA.
2017: FTEA moved to its own facility in Wayne, Illinois at Meadow View Equestrian Center.
2018: FTEA began offering unmounted horsemanship classes. This program offers a unique experience for all participants and allows those who cannot ride a chance to learn about horses and to develop a relationship with them.
2019: FTEA expanded its offerings to include Speech-Language Therapy incorporating equine movement (hippotherapy) provided by a licensed speech-language pathologist.
FTEA continues to work to provide the highest quality programs and services moving into the future. The need for additional horses, volunteers, and equipment is a continual challenge. FTEA seeks the support of corporations and individuals in serving children and adults with special needs in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and Will counties. All donations, large and small, are greatly appreciated.