Dream Riders of Kentucky has named Haley Rigling as its new program manager. She will be the youngest person to hold the position in the organization’s history at age 21.
Rigling’s involvement with the equine-assisted therapy organization began 7 years ago when she started volunteering at 14. Since then, she has worked in multiple roles, including assisting with therapeutic riding classes, completing barn chores, serving as weekend barn manager, and earning certification as a riding instructor through the Certified Horsemanship Association.
An upcoming May graduate of Brescia University with a double major in elementary education and special education, Rigling was unanimously selected for the role by the organization’s board of directors. Board members cited her combined experience in education and horsemanship as key factors in their decision.
“Haley has grown up with this organization. She understands our mission, our horses, and the people we serve at a level that cannot be taught; it must be lived. Her background in both education and horsemanship makes her uniquely qualified to lead our programs into the future, and the Board is thrilled to have her at the helm,” said Denny Miles.
Although Rigling will officially assume the full-time role in mid-May, she has already been serving in the position for several months. During that time, she helped expand programming, including a renewed partnership with River Valley Behavioral Health and a redesigned riding program aimed at improving strength, mobility, and balance for adults and seniors.
Rigling also assisted in securing a Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline Community Cares Ggant, which allowed the organization to purchase two younger horses to support its growing programs.
Dream Riders of Kentucky, based in Philpot, provides equine-assisted therapy for individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, offering therapeutic riding and related activities designed to promote confidence, independence, and overall well-being.
