Founders Of Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center
Heidi
Hi, My Name is Heidi Lenz!
My husband and I are the owners of Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center. We have two wonderful and adventurous boys and have a great love for God. We have begun this exciting new journey and look forward to helping others with the services and facilities we have to offer here at Strides. Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center began in 2020 with a loving and supportive team.
Marshfield, WI was the city I grew up in along with animals ranging from equines, dogs, cats, birds, lizards, and fish. I took horseback riding lessons as a child and have been riding ever since. Teaching my family the importance of caring for animals has had a positive impact on both the animals and my family.
After high school I ventured to UW-Stout and received a teaching degree in Early Childhood/Adolescent Education with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. After 6 years of teaching I achieved a masters degree in Education and Leadership at the UW-Viterbo. I continued teaching for another 7 years in grades PK, 2nd and 3rd. During my years of teaching I have learned the importance of positive behavioral intervention and supports within the school systems. This program allows an outlet for children having difficulty with academics and/or behaviors. Having this background knowledge on animals and child development, I realized animals could be a positive intervention for all. I adventured "outside the box" and realized the gift animals and people can bring to people going through obstacles in life. My family and I have experienced this ourselves and would like to share this gift with others who are experiencing a need for relief.
I extended my knowledge further in Equine Assisted Therapy/Learning, Therapeutic Riding, Animal Wellness and Mentoring. I completed certifications through the CCS program and at UW-Green Bay. I began EAGALA certification to assist as an equine specialist in our Equine Therapy/Learning sessions. I am currently becoming PATH certified to provide Therapeutic Riding for our clients. Both of these certifications take dedication, persistence and education to be able to offer these specialized services to our clients. My future goals are to continue my education in becoming a Licensed Counselor to add to our services for our community.
Our commitment is to serve our clients with wellness quality, respect, experienced, caring and educated providers.
~Owner/Administrator for Strides
~EAGALA Equine Specialist
~Upcoming PATH International Certified
~Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Jason
Hello, my name is Jason. I have had many opportunities to work with children, teenagers and adults throughout my life. I have coached multiple sports for about seven years including football, basketball and archery. Coaching has provided me with the chance to work with many different personality types. I enjoy using humor to connect with all types of people. I enjoy being active and also being outdoors. My hobbies include hunting, fishing, horseback riding and lifting weights. I have a very strong work ethic which has helped me to get to where I am today. I enjoy working with people to help them overcome whatever challenges they have and to help them reach their goals.
I was an electrician for 5+ years and went to school to get my Journeyman’s license in this field. After working on the road for several years, I decided to go on my own working in Construction and Excavating. After 14 years with that experience, my wife and I started Strides, which has given me the chance to work with a variety of people that could benefit from the multiple services offered here. I look forward to helping 1000’s of people of all ages and to serve God as my main priority and share what he has given me to help others.