River Valley Riders, a therapeutic horseback riding program, is hosting an open house on Tuesday and Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at 2007 Neal Av. S. in Afton, in southern Washington County.

The event is intended to help people learn more about the mission of River Valley Riders, founded in 1999 to enrich the lives of children and adults with special needs by providing activities and therapies such as horseback riding and carriage driving. Benefits include improved balance, increased core strength, more self-confidence and improved social skills, said representatives of the organization.

River Valley Riders operated at the Washington County Fairgrounds until 2011, when the rural Afton site opened, providing a 30 percent increase in the number of riders served. River Valley Riders is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization and relies on community funding.

A website further explaining the program is available at www.rivervalleyriders.org.

kevin giles

@stribgiles