Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center Inc.

Individuals with disabilities experience many physical, emotional, and cognitive hurdles, along with obstacles to inclusion and a sense of normalcy. Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center offers a secure and supportive space for individuals with disabilities to enhance their physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being, fostering a sense of belonging and equality. 

Impact

Abraham

When Abraham first joined CTRC, he was reluctant to wear his helmet, did not want to enter the arena, and was unsure of what to expect. In just a few short months, the transformation within Abraham from how he first presented to now is truly remarkable. It is night and day, what the horses provide him: trust, safety, and courage. Today, Abraham independently walks into the building, willingly puts on his helmet, and waits with a smile to mount his horse—all clear signs of his growing comfort and joy.

During sessions, Abraham communicates with his speech language pathologist, Jill, using a combination of sign language, push-button switches, and his augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. At first, he initially relied on only a few signs and buttons, but he quickly began using his AAC device more consistently as he gained confidence in the saddle. His receptive and expressive language skills have blossomed, and mom reports more vocalizations and imitations at home after his time at CTRC.

“Every time Abraham is on that beautiful horse, I cry,” shares his mom. “I see how he enjoys every moment and how Jill puts her effort into helping my son achieve his goals. After a couple of weeks, I began to see more eye contact in Abraham.”

Your support makes transformations like Abraham’s possible.

Abigail

Abigail’s journey is one of trust, strength, and joy. After sustaining an anoxic brain injury in 2015, doctors told her family she would never progress, never sit independently, and never regain daily living skills. But Abigail has proven them all wrong.

Through her time at CTRC, riding has become more than just therapy; it’s her source of empowerment, growth, and joy. On horseback, Abigail has gained strength in her core and neck, helping to stabilize her scoliosis and improve her head control. Today, she can sit independently for up to 10 minutes—a milestone once thought impossible.

Her mom remembers a powerful moment when Abigail reached out to hold her occupational therapist, Dani’s  hand: “A small gesture that spoke volumes about her growing trust and connection.” Dani adds, “Riding brings joy to Abi each week. She smiles, laughs, and grows more confident with every ride.”

Each lesson leaves Abigail beaming with pride, her laughter echoing throughout the barn and on the way home. Her progress is a testament to her strength and to the compassion of the CTRC staff and volunteers who walk alongside her.

Craig

Craig has been part of CTRC since 2002, and from his very first lesson, he was hooked. Though he had never been fond of animals, the calm, steady presence of the horses quickly won him over. His home provider, Ben, shares, “Craig’s mood after riding is always improved, and he seems proud and deeply satisfied with riding in the therapeutic riding classes at CTRC. This new attitude lends itself to other successes in his life. As his care providers for decades, my wife and I have rarely really seen programs for folks with disabilities that create the level of excitement that CTRC does.”

Like many, Craig faced profound challenges due to the pandemic. He became anxious riding in cars and resisted leaving home, even for CTRC. With the support of staff like Loraine, Craig eased back into his routine with short visits. His motivation to return to riding ultimately gave him the confidence to restart his day program and enjoy being out in the community again.

Craig’s instructor notes his enthusiasm each week as he eagerly and confidently calls out, “Walk on!” He’s gained patience in group settings, tackling new challenges every day, like drill team riding, while he beams with pride in each and every class.

Thanks to your support, riders like Craig continue to find joy, confidence, and community through the healing power of horses.