Inspiring Conversations with Laurie Mosier of Great Plains Adaptive Riding Academy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurie Mosier

Hi Laurie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Founded in 2013, Great Plains Adaptive Riding Academy is dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding to children and adults with special abilities. Located on a 20-acre education-focused ranch in northwestern Kansas City, Kansas, Great Plains is a member center of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Each week, we provide 30 to 35 lessons, helping individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Our programs are designed for individuals with diverse needs, including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, multiple sclerosis, vision and hearing impairments, emotional disorders, limited mobility, and more.

Each lesson involves the dedicated work of an instructor, 1-3 trained volunteers, and our specially selected, therapeutic horses. In addition, our facilities are fully accessible to ensure everyone can participate comfortably. This level of care and service would not be possible without the generous support of individuals and businesses in our community.

We rely on donations to continue providing our life-changing programs and ensuring every participant receives the full benefit of adaptive riding. Whether you are a donor, volunteer, or partner, your support helps us continue our mission to create a more inclusive, supportive environment for all.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Perseverance truly pays off. Nearly two years ago, our program faced a major setback, leaving us without horses, saddles, and tack—everything we needed to continue running. Yet, through the unwavering dedication of our board of directors, volunteers, families, and the incredible support from the community, we were able to overcome this challenge. In just two months, we had secured a herd of 7 horses, saddles, tack, and all the equipment necessary to get us back on track.

Seeing our riders back in the saddle, their smiles, and the progress they made reaffirmed that every struggle was worth it. The heart of our success lies in the collective support of our community. Without those who believe in our mission, none of this would be possible.

Today, we are thriving—reaching more riders than ever before, expanding our program, and continuing to transform lives. Together, we are making a lasting impact, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Great Plains Adaptive Riding Academy?
Great Plains Adaptive Riding Academy is a non-profit 501c3 organization that provides adaptive horseback riding programs to adults and children with unique abilities. Our programs are based out of Kansas City, Kansas, and serve those in the surrounding areas.

Our goal is to change the lives of our riders by helping them to see what they are capable of through adaptive riding.
We strive to deliver healing, strength & confidence through the powerful connection between riders & horses.

A quote from one of our rider’s parents. ‘They are not limited by their diagnosis. ’Walk on’ quite possibly means more to them than just telling the horse to walk. It’s a sign of their independence.’
Shannon Boranyan – Yuri’s mom

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
At Great Plains, our riders possess incredible skills and abilities. The most amazing thing? On horseback, everyone looks the same. Wheelchairs, crutches, and special equipment fade away the moment our riders mount their horses. The “disability” disappears, allowing their true personalities to shine.

Through grit and determination, they guide 1,000-pound animals, gaining confidence, dexterity, flexibility, core strength, and so much more. The barn fills with smiles and laughter as friendships blossom, bonds form between people and animals, and lives are truly transformed.

Here’s what our riders and volunteers have to say:

“I love Great Plains because I can be myself—and it’s OK.” – Rider

“As a volunteer, my life has been changed because of our amazing riders. Great Plains is like no other place—magic truly happens here in the barn.” – Volunteer

Pricing:

• $200 a month for 4 weekly lessons

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.GreatPlainsARA.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatplainsara?igsh=MTRxOThoOXAyZGVxcw%3D%3D
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreatPlainsARA
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@greatplainsara