About Purple Wonder Ponies
Purple Wonder Ponies provides individualized therapeutic and adaptive riding programs that enhance students' physical, emotional, and social well-being through safe horse interactions and skill-building activities.
Our Vision: To empower each student to achieve their full potential by fostering a supportive environment that nurtures horsemanship, connection with horses, and becoming a well-rounded rider, regardless of abilities.
Value Inclusivity: We provide tailored programs that accommodate the unique needs and goals of every participant.
Safety: We ensure a safe and nurturing space for learning and growth.
Growth: We empower our students to develop confidence, strength, and skills through horse care and riding.
Compassion: We treat every participant and horse with respect, care, and understanding.
Community: We foster collaboration and support among our participants, volunteers, staff, and the broader community.
Kristi Jarosch
Head Trainer & Founder
Kristi Jarosch is a life-long equestrian, combining a long-standing history of quality English equitation with a unique perspective as a PATH-International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. For over fifteen years, Kristi has been an active rider and trainer in multiple disciplines including hunt seat, dressage, and Western pleasure. Not only does Kristi have a long line of students who have successfully competed in a variety of shows including the NIHJA circuit, Special Olympics, and IHSA teams but she has also trained dozens of horses going on to careers with juniors, amateurs, and in high-quality school programs.
In 2004, Kristi joined the St. Mary of the Woods College Zone 9 Region 1 IHSA Hunt Seat and Western teams, completing her Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies in 2008. Uniquely, Kristi brought her self-trained horse, Skating on Thin Ice, with her to college, where he became a regional favorite draw as an exceptionally trained ride. Kristi audits clinics to constantly learn new approaches to teaching and strives to provide all of her students––regardless of ability––the opportunity to develop solid equitation and horsemanship.
The PWP Board
The PWP Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated group who are passionate about the mission of providing a wonderful Equestrian education to every student. Each member brings a unique set of skills and expertise, ranging from equine management and therapy to nonprofit governance and fundraising. The Board plays a crucial role in setting policies, securing funding, and fostering partnerships within the community, all while ensuring that the core values of compassion, empowerment, and inclusion are upheld in every aspect of the organization. Their collective commitment helps make Purple Wonder Ponies accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities, enhancing the lives of riders and their families.