Business Details
Therapeutic Horse Riding Programs in Sagaponack, NY
We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the therapeutic power of horses. Founded to address the needs of individuals with cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges, we provide specialized therapeutic riding lessons and equine-assisted services. Our team of certified instructors and dedicated volunteers works with children and adults facing conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and visual impairments. Accredited by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl), we are the only premier center of this kind in Suffolk County, NY.Our programs rely on community support, with donations subsidizing over 80% of our operating costs. Our experienced leadership includes professionals with advanced degrees in nonprofit management, equine studies, and education, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care. We maintain a herd of therapy horses, each contributing uniquely to our mission. Our commitment to transparency and accountability is demonstrated by our 2022 Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid. Through events, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships, we strive to create lasting, positive change in the lives of those we serve.
Services
Therapeutic Riding Lessons
Equine-Assisted Services
Volunteer Opportunities
Donation Programs
Fundraising Events
Highlights and features
- We are Suffolk County's only premier PATH Intl-accredited therapeutic riding center.
- Our team includes PATH-certified instructors with decades of combined equine therapy experience.
- We serve diverse needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.
- 80% of our operating costs are covered by community donations and support.
- Our 2022 Gold Seal of Transparency demonstrates our commitment to accountability.
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl)
What people say
Transformational
More engaged
Socially attuned
Services
Therapeutic Riding Lessons
Our PATH-certified instructors deliver specialized riding sessions for individuals with cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges. These lessons improve motor skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction through structured horse activities. Participants experience measurable progress in confidence and physical coordination through our evidence-based approach.
Equine-Assisted Services
We offer ground-based equine interactions tailored to specific therapeutic goals. These sessions address emotional disabilities, developmental delays, and sensory processing challenges through guided horse care and interaction. Our programs demonstrate measurable outcomes in emotional regulation and cognitive development for children and adults alike.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers work directly with riders and horses in our therapeutic programs. This hands-on involvement provides meaningful community engagement while supporting our mission. Training is provided to ensure volunteers contribute effectively to our participants' therapeutic progress.
Donation Programs
Contributions fund our operating costs, horse care, and program expansions. Donors directly impact our ability to serve individuals with special needs through equine therapy. Our 2022 Gold Seal of Transparency ensures donors' confidence in our financial accountability.
Fundraising Events
Annual events like our Friends & Family Dinner and Spring Swing Golf Tournament generate critical support. These gatherings combine community engagement with fundraising to sustain our therapeutic programs. Proceeds directly subsidize over 80% of our annual operating costs.
People
Cathleen Curran
Executive Director
Masters in Non-Profit Management from The New School. Former director at Bideawee. Experienced equestrian with North Fork roots. Leads CTREE's strategic direction and operations.
Jill Carney
Program Director
PATH-certified instructor with hunter-jumper background. Specializes in adapting equine therapy for special needs populations. Coordinates daily program operations and instructor training.
Shannon Bozzuto Chant
Director of Equine Care
Equine Studies graduate from University of Connecticut. Oversees horse training and care. Brings 15+ years of therapeutic riding program management experience to CTREE operations.
Jennifer Van Arsdale
Marketing & Administrative Manager
Multi-disciplinary admin and tech professional. Manages communications, branding, and website development. Combines nonprofit expertise with digital solutions for organizational growth.
Jessica Garcia
Certified Instructor
Early childhood education specialist with decade-long equestrian experience. Integrates educational principles with therapeutic riding techniques. Focuses on helping participants achieve developmental milestones through horse interactions.
Questions
What conditions do your therapeutic programs address?
We serve individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, stroke recovery, and visual impairments through tailored equine therapy programs.
How are your instructors qualified?
All riding instructors are PATH Intl-certified with specialized training in adapting equine therapy for diverse cognitive, physical, and emotional needs across age groups.
Can I volunteer without horse experience?
Yes, we provide training for volunteers working with special needs riders and horses. No prior equine experience is required to participate in our volunteer program.
How do donations support your programs?
Donations cover 80% of our operating costs, including horse care, facility maintenance, and program expansions that aren't covered by participant fees.
What fundraising events do you host annually?
We organize the Friends & Family Dinner, Spring Swing Golf Tournament, and Sunset Cocktails events to support our therapeutic programs and horse care needs.
