SIRE Therapeutic Horsemanship improves the quality of life for people with special needs through therapeutic horsemanship activities and educational outreach. A nonprofit organization established locally in 1983, SIRE is recognized by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International as a Premier Accredited Center and serves almost 300 riders in weekly lesson programs. At two Houston-area facilities—in Fort Bend and Spring, Texas—SIRE owns and maintains more than 30 specially trained horses and conducts specialized instructor training. The most common diagnosis for riders served is autism. Although riders' ages range from three years to senior citizens, the greatest percentage of riders is children. SIRE also has a strong connection with the military and wounded veterans.