Healing Reins of Kentucky, a nonprofit serving western Kentucky and southern Indiana, provides equine assisted activities that promote education, healing, and inclusion for people of all abilities. 

With Hydro’s support, the organization is developing a new outdoor classroom, a gazebo like structure with all weather rubber flooring to accommodate both horses and mobility equipment. This space will enhance existing programming by offering a safe, accessible, and engaging environment for small groups, special needs participants, and local nonprofit collaborations.

Expanding access to equine assisted services and outdoor learning to support mental and physical wellbeing

Equine assisted services, or therapeutic riding, is a growing treatment approach that supports mental and physical wellbeing through guided interactions with horses. 

Under professional supervision, participants engage in activities like riding, grooming, and care, which can complement traditional therapies and aid in recovery. This hands on experience promotes emotional connection, physical coordination and overall healing.

Spearheaded by Hydro Henderson’s HR Manager, Lacey Alexander, this initiative aligns with Hydro’s commitment to being a good neighbor and ensuring that no one is left behind.

For Lacey, the opportunity to support Healing Reins was personal. Her experiences with her children and their excitement around horses has fueled her passion for supporting this organization and this initiative. 

“Horses are such an important part of Kentucky’s heritage and they have an incredible ability to heal, teach, and connect people. This project will provide children and individuals with disabilities the chance to experience that connection in a space designed to meet their needs. At Hydro, we believe in strengthening the communities we are a part of and this is a perfect example of how we can make a meaningful difference,” says Alexander.

A commitment to community, inclusion and healing

The outdoor classroom is part of a larger initiative that includes a sensory trail and gardens, already partially funded by a local grant. Hydro’s contribution ensures that Healing Reins can create an even more accessible environment for participants to learn about agriculture, equine care and nature.

“At Healing Reins, we believe that exposure to farm life and equines can transform lives. This outdoor classroom will allow us to expand our reach and provide even more opportunities for individuals with disabilities and community groups. We are incredibly grateful for Hydro’s support in making this vision a reality,” says Monica Fella, Executive Director at Healing Reins of Kentucky.

Building stronger communities

The Healing Reins initiative is part of Hydro’s Just Transition Program, which supports local projects that strengthen communities, create meaningful impact and provide opportunities for future generations. 
In addition to the $20,000 dedicated for the Healing Reins initiative, Hydro has provided approximately $125,000 related to other local community projects since 2022, most of which have been targeted efforts to support children in the community. 

“At Hydro, we don’t just operate within communities, we are part of them. Through initiatives like this, we can help build a more supportive society where everyone has access to opportunities, whether in education, work, or outdoor activities,” says Malia Sellers, Managing Director at Hydro Henderson.

The project is expected to be completed later this year.

The 65 employees at Hydro Henderson recycle around 90,000 tonnes of aluminum annually for key American industries such as automotive, transportation and building and construction.