Frequently Asked Questions

What ages are this program for?

This program is for anyone 8 or above. Special permission must be given for any persons younger than 8. During sessions, different ages will be meeting at the same time but will be working individually with a mentor and some student helpers.

Am I a beginner, intermediate, or advanced individual?

If you have already been in our program, you must communicate with your mentor or your riding instructor to determine your ability. If you have you never been in our program, we suggest you start as a beginner; however, if you have experience riding elsewhere, contact us to discuss the best option for you.

Is a beginner a younger person?

NO. A beginner may be someone who has ridden in the past, but does not have the skills to handle a horse on the ground, tack up without help, do basic ground work to build relationship with the horse, etc.

How do I sign up?

You will have access to a link so that you can sign up online for the appropriate time slot that you choose. Once you are signed up, you will receive more updates about your sessions. 

How much does this cost?

When you sign up for the 8 sessions, you will be directed to pay the $200 (plus transaction fees) via our secure online platform. If the Session Fee is difficult for you to pay, we do offer a limited number of scholarships each season. 

Can I get a scholarship?

Scholarships are given based on income level, and a separate application must be filled out to receive a scholarship. If scholarships are filled for one season, you may be placed on a waiting list for another season of sessions.

Can I give to support someone else with a scholarship?

Yes. Make your donation of any amount on the Quiet Pastures Giving Page and select “Give to Support a Guest.” As long as your donation is not given for the benefit of a specific person, it is deductible for federal income tax purposes.

Since you are a registered 501(c)(3), is my fee tax-deductible?

No. Per IRS regulations, since you are receiving something of equal market value in return for your payment, it is not deductible for federal income tax purposes.

Is there any opportunity to make up a missed session?

Yes. There will be one makeup date available for you at the end of each session series.

If I miss more than one session do I get a refund?

No. There will be no refund for any missed sessions.

What does the yearly calendar look like?

Generally-

Fall sessions are September–October

Winter sessions are January–February

Spring sessions are April–May

Summer sessions are June–July

How are horsemanship sessions different from private riding lessons?

You will have the opportunity to work around the horses for a 2-hour period of time. During this time, you will be engaged in a horsemanship lesson teaching you about the horse. You will also be actively working with your horse to build relationship and even become a better rider. NOT all sessions are guaranteed to include riding. Private lessons are strictly riding with the help of an instructor. 

Who leads these sessions?

There will be an overseer who leads everyone present in general. Each guest will be paired with a mentor, and there will be student helpers helping out in any way needed. 

Can I still take private riding lessons?

Private riding lesson opportunities will be available in the months of November, December, March, and August. Very few options are available during our session months.

Why would I want to do horsemanship rather than private riding lessons?

The horsemanship program is built to develop a more rounded horse person. The guest will learn to handle the horse in a confident manner on the ground with skills to train a young horse into a more usable mount. The guest will actively build relationship with a horse rather than just ride to further their skill. The guest will be working with many different horses from younger to older and with varying degrees of difficulty. Every opportunity to teach our horses purpose will be utilized to teach a guest the art of horsemanship. The end goal is to prepare a guest to successfully have their own horse one day. Private lessons can further the skill of riding, but all great riders must also understand the horse better to train for and succeed in any discipline. Many times this happens once a rider purchases or leases their own horse.

What do I need to wear or bring?

Please dress appropriate for the weather, as we are an outdoor facility with an indoor protected space for use.  Wear closed-toe shoes that are NOT tennis shoes. (Boots with a small heel are preferred). Long pants are a must but can be thin in hot weather. Riding pants are NOT necessary. We supply helmets. Some boots are available for temporary use upon request.

What if I am scared of horses?

You will never be required to ride a horse or even touch a horse if your fear persists. However, we will work with you to build confidence around a horse and you can watch demonstrations through your leader as you go through our program.

Do I have to ride?

Riding is a part of our program, however, not everyone is interested in riding.  Many activities are simple exercises on the ground with the horse. You will never be forced to ride.

How can I donate to Quiet Pastures?
It is simple, safe, and secure.  Click here.

How legitimate is Quiet Pastures?
We have been vetted by third party organizations such as Charity Navigator and GuideStar.

How can I volunteer with Quiet Pastures?
Simply complete the VOLUNTEER NOW Application.  (Create a link to a simple application)  

Add:  Does Quiet Pastures have a Social Media presence?
Yes, we are on Facebook, YouTube & LinkedIn.