Tucked in the south of Los Angeles, Manes for Movement is a small ranch offering equine-assisted therapies for individuals with disabilities. Here, children and adults feed, groom, and ride the horses—forming powerful bonds with both the animals and the dedicated staff.

Young man with a disabilitity his caregiver Sherika Dirks
A Black woman smiling and pointing upwards with her index finger, standing next to an autistic man with a beard who is looking at her; both are indoors. Theirs is a beautiful relationship based on support.
Liz, a woman in athletic clothing, sitting outdoors with a client, a woman wearing a large sun hat and gloves. They are engaged in a conversation at a table with a device for the young woman to be able to communicate.

The experience fosters a sense of autonomy, connection, and empowerment. The horses’ natural movement helps improve strength, coordination, and balance, all within a joyful, supportive environment

A young girl riding a horse, wearing a helmet and pointing forward with her arm extended, outdoors on a sunny day.
A young autistic man wearing a helmet and a vest stands next to a horse, holding its bridle, in an outdoor setting with trees and a fence in the background.
Close-up of a brown horse's face, with a dark mane, partially obscured by a white object in the foreground.
A girl with down syndrome wearing a helmet and a Nike t-shirt riding a horse, holding a small plush toy.
A woman sitting on a bench in front of a horse stable, smiling slightly, with a horse hanging its head out of the stable door.
A young boy wearing a helmet, glasses, and a Pittsburgh Pirates T-shirt is riding a white horse, holding the reins. Two other boys are nearby, with one partially visible. The background shows trees and a building.