News & Updates

Stay up to date with what's happening at Take the Reins

What a summer! And you made it happen...

June 2025

Friends and family who contributed to our inaugural summer, we're happy to share:
  • Twenty-three individuals attended a week-long camp (one attended camp twice!)
  • At least six parents gave direct feedback about the positive impact camp had on their youth.
  • Most youth want to continute their development in camp next summer.
  • Middle and elementary school staff have requested we attend parent programs this winter to share more information about our program.
  • Due to extremely hot weather during the third camp, we had a"two-days-in-one" make-up day on September 27. Despite occurring on Saturday and with school back in session, ten of the eleven youth from week 3 attended. During the day's discussions, students expressed a desire to stay involved throughout the Fall. Most encouraging was their desire to be a part of the (future) year round after-school program!

What a summer! And you made it happen... - Image 1
What a summer! And you made it happen... - Image 2

Our First Ever Golf Outing

August 2025

Despite short notice and very limited available dates, we had an inaugural golf fundraising tournament.

Polo anyone? Take the Reins Youth said 'Yes!'

August 2025

Our program is based on student-led development and it will be fun to help guide their interests as they continue in Take the Reins. To share the opportunities that may lie ahead, we offered a night at the polo matches at Hickory Hall Polo Club in August. Eleven youth (and some parents) attended the matches. We had an absolute blast trying to figure out the rules and strategies.
We visited the polo ponies and talked to the riders afterwards..
Polo anyone?

Polo anyone? Take the Reins Youth said 'Yes!' - Image 1
Polo anyone? Take the Reins Youth said 'Yes!' - Image 2
Polo anyone? Take the Reins Youth said 'Yes!' - Image 3

Horses attending high school? Ours do, and they made an impact!

August 2025

Yes, pictures tell the story. In parternship with Jennifer Wright of Harnessing HOpe Therapeutic Riding and Driving, our horses attended school, marched down the hallway past the cafeteria, and into the courtyard for two hours of fun with some very surprised strudents and teachers!
Take the Reins was invited to downtown Indianapolis to be a part of Shortridge High School's Shine Program event on Friday, September 5th between school's end and that night's home football game.
Shine is the school's student-led program that prioritizes safety, health, and inclusion in a nurturing environment. A key goal is curbing violence by providing positive activities after school. Since its inception in August 2024, the school ahs seen a 50% decrease in suspension rates!
How does the Shortridge High School visit fit in with the mission of Take the Reins?
Take the Reins is starting its program with middle school students to prepare them to take leadership popsitions in both Take the Reins and their high school. When discussed with Shortridge students, they liked the idea and expressed interest in their younger siblings becoming involved. Much more to come!!

WRTV News Coverage
Horses attending high school? Ours do, and they made an impact! - Image 1
Horses attending high school? Ours do, and they made an impact! - Image 2
Horses attending high school? Ours do, and they made an impact! - Image 3

WRTV News Coverage!

June 2025

Take the Reins was featured on WRTV Indianapolis in a story about learning life lessons through horses. Watch the coverage to see our youth and program in action!

Watch on WRTV
Take The Reins
Indianapolis, IN