Mitey Riders Riding Center

Loving horse people, Harry and Marilyn started Misty Meadows in 1968.  With three children -Scott, David, and Jody- and four grandchildren, the Swimmers have had their share of hugs, smiles, and special moments at Misty Meadows.  This love for children helped shape the foundation of the Mitey Riders program, which with the continued inspiration of Stacy Marx (one of the Mitey Riders' students) brought the program to reality.  

When Harry Swimmer sat six-year old Stacy Marx on a horse for the first time, she seemed transformed by the experience.  Stacy, who is deaf, challenged with poor body coordination and strength, and unable to walk, inspired Harry to research therapeutic riding and to open his heart and his Misty Meadows Farm to others with disabilities.

The partnership between Harry Swimmer and Joy Simon allowed his dream to take shape.  Now, 14 years later, Joy Simon is the Director of the Mitey Riders program which provides students with the opportunity to develop balance, coordination and confidence.  Riders with challenges like cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, spina bifida or autism benefit from relationships formed with other students, volunteers and even the horses, whose gentle rhythmic movements closely parallel those of human gaits.

Misty Meadows Mitey Riders therapeutic center is fully accredited by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) and continues to gain respect of professions like the American Physical Therapy Association and the Occupational Therapy Association.

The Mitey Riders goal is to continue to provide the opportunities and benefits of their program for as long as there are people with physical and mental disabilities.