North Country R.I.D.E.
PO Box 312
Esko, MN 55733
(218) 879-7608
e-mail: ncride@gmail.com web site: www.ncride.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin the enrollment process?
There are two simple ways to start the process. 1. Click on the 5 links below to download, fill-out and print enrollment forms or 2. Contact the North Country R.I.D.E. office at (218) 879-7608, and we will send you a packet of forms to complete. This packet will include:
- Cover Letter from the Program Coordinator
- Adult Application Form or Youth Application Form
- Client Release Form
- Client Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment Form
- Client’s Medical Information and Physician Statement Form. Note, the physician statement must be filled out and signed by a physician before the rider can ride.
Clients must be age 4 or older.
Complete these forms and send back to us as soon as possible.
Then what?
The forms are reviewed by our screening committee to evaluate the prospective participant and what type of programming we have available for them. North Country R.I.D.E. makes every effort to accommodate those who wish to participate in our activities. We follow the NARHA guidelines regarding precautions and contra-indications to riding. This means that if we determine there are medical or safety concerns for the rider, horse, volunteers or staff, North Country R.I.D.E. reserves the right to deny or adapt our services as deemed appropriate. After the screening process, you will be contacted with information regarding your participation and class schedule.
How Do I Pay For My Classes?
North Country R.I.D.E. has a pre-payment policy, which means payment must be made prior to the first week of the riding session. If you know prior to your six-week session that you will be missing a week, we will allow a reduction in your total cost to reflect this missed lesson. Otherwise, rider fees are non-refundable whether or not you are able to attend your riding class. We ask that you notify us if you are unable to make a lesson, for any reason, so we can better prepare for the entire class.
If you need financial assistance please fill out the Lollipop Scholarship Fund Application form. You can download it by clicking on the link above or by calling the North Country R.I.D.E. office at (218) 879-7608. Fill it out and return it with your completed registration packet. Please allow two weeks for processing prior to the start of the session.
What Will My Riding Class Be Like?
The riding classes are individualized; goals and instruction are adapted to the riders’ individual needs. During a six-week session, you will have class one day per week, on the same day and time each week. Your class time will generally last one hour, but adjustments may be made according to the number of volunteers available to help in each class. We ask that staff who come with riders, or the riders’ parents, be prepared to volunteer in the class.
We also have a program called “Companionship Rider” in which friends and/or family members can sign up for a six-week session, and attend the same class as their friend/family member who has special needs. Please ask us about this, if you are interested.
How Should I Dress?
Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Hats, jackets, and gloves may be needed in cold weather. Long pants and boots with a heel are best for classes. NO sandals or shorts are allowed on a rider during the riding class.