ROOTED IN UNITY

Rooted In Unity (RIU) Equestrian celebrates the deep, natural connection between humans and horses. Horses are remarkably perceptive, attuned to their surroundings, and they have an incredible ability to read human energy. Recent scientific findings even show that when people connect with horses, their hearts synchronize and beat in harmony—a testament to the unique bond that can form between us and these amazing animals.

Rooted in Unity Equestrian was founded to make horseback riding accessible to those in our community who may not otherwise have the opportunity or who seek a positive outlet. Through the joys of riding and the responsibilities of horsemanship, our program provides both practical skills, like grooming, tacking, and horse care, and invaluable personal skills, such as leadership, kindness, compassion, courage, and communication.

“Rooted in Unity” reflects our core values of harmony, connection, and stability. Our progam fosters a welcoming community, grounded in shared respect for nature and inclusivity. Partnering with Wrenacyn was an obvious choice as both our program and Wrenacyn believe in creating a place where both horses and people thrive, growing together in mutual understanding and support.

-Kayla Johnson, Founder of Rooted In Unity

RIU provides affordable horseback riding lessons to those in our community who may not have the opportunity or who need an outlet. Our organization provides this through the joys and responsibilities of horsemanship and riding instruction. Our program develops hard skills (grooming, tacking, basic horse care, collaborating with other others) and soft skills (leadership, kindness, compassion, courage, communication).

What are the definitions of underserved and economically disadvantaged?

Underserved children (children from low-income backgrounds)

 

Economically disadvantaged children are children whose family participates in economic assistance programs such as the MCPS free or reduced-price meals based on household size and income, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), or Medicaid benefits, Social Security Insurance (SSI), Foster Care, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)