About Us
Rein and Shine is a registered non-profit organization founded in 2001. Since the organization began it has been dedicated to creating and sustaining a therapeutic horseback riding facility where Charleston County residents with disabilities of all kinds can learn, grow and heal. Our organization provides experienced and professional instruction to members of the community with a wide range of physical and mental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Cerebral Palsy (CP), and Down ’s Syndrome, giving them a 
chance to participate in a sport. With the help of the community Rein and Shine has continued to grow by adding new trails and riding areas to our facility. In addition to students who receive private lessons and hippotherapy we also serve special education classes from Wando High School, Moultrie Middle School, Pattison’s Academy and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Rein and Shine’s Board of Directors and operating staff are dedicated to expanding our services to encompass an increasing range of individual needs.
Our participants experience a wide range of physical benefits including increased motor skills and muscle strength, better balance and coordination, and improved range of motion. As the horse moves, it naturally sways from side-to-side. This movement challenges a rider’s entire body to learn to keep time with this gentle motion. As a result, our participants experience a wide range of physical benefits from horseback therapy, including increased muscle strength, better balance and coordination, and improved range of motion. The psychological benefits are also noteworthy and include increased motivation, decreased agitation and frustration, and a new ability to take risks which builds confidence and pride.
The program has proven that grooming, handling and riding horses can be a positive impact on a child or adult in need. By interacting with 
horses, a participant is able to learn to trust, take responsibility and take risks in a safe and comfortable environment. All of our participants, no matter their level of functionality, experience a sense of belonging.
The targeted population includes the low income/disabled school children and their families, those at or below poverty, and those community members with disabilities who do not seek alternative therapy. Charleston County's population of 5 to 20 year olds has 9.7% occurrence of disabilities. Compared to the South Carolina state average of 5.1% and National average of 4.6%, Charleston County (South Carolina Community Profiles, 2000) has a significantly higher rate. Rein and Shine advocates for school, parent and community involvement and collaboration around local child and adolescent health issues that place our children at risk for school failure, poor socialization, and poor health outcomes later in life.
