04/30/2026
April is Autism Awareness Month: Meet Nathan
Nathan is a curious and happy 7-year-old who loves to explore, create, and try new things. He was almost 3 years old when he was diagnosed with autism and global developmental delay, and supporting him through daily challenges quickly became his parents’ top priority.
Nathan joined Jack’s Helping Hand in August 2025 and quickly found a special connection through the Little Riders program. Although Nathan has always been afraid of heights, he climbed onto Max for his first lesson without hesitation. Since then, riding “his” horse has become something he truly loves.
Through his equine lessons, Nathan has grown more confident and comfortable. Riding has helped him work through his fear of heights, strengthen his social skills, improve his focus, follow directions, use language, express himself, and connect with his riding friends, staff, and volunteers.
Nathan’s family is incredibly grateful to Jack’s Helping Hand for providing this opportunity and for making such a meaningful difference in his life.
Jack's Helping Hand