Riding Instructor

Amy Anderson

Amy is from Sarasota, Forida and has lived in Gainesville for 8 years. She has always had a love for horses, inheriting the horse gene from her grandmother whose life was horse driven. Throughout her childhood she took as many opportunities as she could to take riding lessons and just be around horses. When Amy moved to Gainesville she discovered many horse farms where she could perform barn chores in exchange for riding lessons. Amy soon realized that one of her dreams was to work with horses, so she began looking for an area that felt right to her, this is when she discovered HOPE in 2006.

Amy instantly became very intrigued and inspired by the concept of integrating equine activities with therapy to help people. HOPE presented the perfect experience of horse life while benefiting people with special needs. She eagerly started volunteering with therapy sessions and has continued so for the last two years. HOPE has contributed to her interest in occupational therapy. Amy has a BA in Sociology from the University of Florida and is currently pursuing graduate school for a master's in occupational therapy.

Amy plans on including equine assisted therapy as a future occupational therapist. She also currently works at a preschool and enjoys working with kids, and enjoys including creative and fun activities for children and riders. At HOPE it is fulfilling to witness the enjoyment and physical benefits that kids and adults get from horses. She has begun to extend her volunteer experience towards becoming a certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. Amy will be providing lessons for HOPE's riders starting in December. She is grateful to have found such a wonderful blend of her interests while contributing to HOPE and the community.