Parkwood
Therapeutic Riding Center
Sarah Del Ricci
Founder & Executive Director
Sarah founded Parkwood Therapeutic Riding Center in 2012 with a mission to create a safe, inclusive space where individuals of all ages and abilities could experience the healing power of horses. As Executive Director and a certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, she leads the program with vision, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her riders and their families.
With a lifelong love of horses and extensive experience in equine-assisted services, Sarah designs and oversees individualized lesson plans that focus on building confidence, improving physical and emotional well-being, and fostering independence through horsemanship. She is known for her calm presence, creative teaching style, and ability to connect with riders of all backgrounds.
In addition to her work at Parkwood, Sarah is a proud mom and accomplished barrel racer who competes regularly. She brings the same energy and dedication to the arena that she brings to every aspect of her life. Her deep understanding of horses, strong leadership, and passion for helping others make her a driving force behind Parkwood’s success.
Nicole Heyduk
Instructor and Program Director
As a passionate therapeutic riding instructor, I take great pride in helping individuals of all abilities develop confidence, strength, and independence through horseback riding. My love for horses is matched by my dedication to my riders, ensuring they have a safe, enriching, and empowering experience at the barn. When I'm not teaching or spending time with the horses, I volunteer with the Special Olympics and cherish quiet moments with my husband and our two dogs, embracing the simple joys of life.
Brianna Swiderski
Instructor
As a riding instructor, I am dedicated to helping individuals of all skill levels develop their riding abilities. Whether they're riding for leisure or preparing for competition, my goal is to build the confidence, refine their skills, and guide them toward achieving their equestrian aspirations!
Ami Ledesma
Instructor
Being a Therapeutic Riding Instructor has brought such joy to my life. Working with kids and adults has been both challenging and fun! After almost 25 years of teaching I am proud to work for Parkwood. My goal is to help each rider take a step forward in their journey. It's amazing to be a part of something that brings so many smiles to our rider's faces. After many years of riding I have learned that horses can be a magical and safe part of therapy. In my private life I have a husband (Larry) and a daughter(Dory), both of whom you'll see volunteering at the barn. I look forward to many more years helping our riders chase their dreams!
Brianne Gerhard
Instructor
Brianne has a long history of working with horses and teaching riders at various levels. She grew up competing in equitation and hunter disciplines with a strong focus on basics and correct development of the mechanics in both the rider and the horse.
Brianne began teaching at 16 years old and taught periodically since 1998. Most recently she was involved in the retraining of off-track thoroughbreds which she found very rewarding and fulfilling. Brianne’s teaching style is often described as fun, encouraging, and challenging.
Brianne is returning to teaching after a few years away from horses to complete graduate school and begin a new career as a mental health clinician focusing on veterans and first responders.
In her personal life Brianne enjoys spending time with her husband, son and their 3 dogs, as well as running, reading, and exploring the hobby of the moment (currently custom mixing herbal teas from plants she grows in her garden).