Business Details
41 Years
experience
Therapeutic Riding Programs in Grantville, PA
Founded in 1985 by Ben and Shirley Nolt, Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association (CATRA) has dedicated over four decades to providing equine and animal-assisted therapeutic programs in Grantville, Pennsylvania. Our mission centers on enhancing the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals of all abilities through a holistic approach rooted in equestrian experiences. With a team of specially trained horses and volunteers, we serve riders ranging from infants to seniors, fostering a supportive community that values respect, health, and inclusivity. Our programs extend beyond weekly therapeutic riding to include equine-assisted learning, miniature horse interactions, and volunteer opportunities that engage diverse age groups. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we prioritize accessibility, offering scholarships to ensure financial limitations do not exclude those who could benefit from our services.Our board of directors and staff bring decades of combined expertise in therapeutic horsemanship, education, and nonprofit management, reinforcing our commitment to excellence. We maintain rigorous safety standards and collaborate with local communities to expand our impact while preserving the welfare of our therapy animals. Through annual events and partnerships, we educate the public about the transformative power of human-animal connections. Our transparent operations and donor accountability have sustained our programs for generations, and we continue innovating to meet evolving community needs while honoring our founding principles.
Services
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Equine-Assisted Learning
Miniature Horse Lessons
Volunteer Programs
Horse Shows
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Alternative Break Internships
Reading Assistance Programs
Board Training
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialized experience in therapeutic riding programs
- Customized equine-assisted learning for diverse age groups and abilities
- Specially trained therapy horses serving 100+ clients per session
- Community-focused approach integrating riders, volunteers, and families
- Transparent operations with documented scholarship and donor accountability
Services
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Our therapeutic riding program addresses physical, psychological, and social development through structured horseback riding sessions. Riders improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength while building confidence and social connections. Certified instructors work with individuals aged 12 months to seniors, adapting techniques to meet diverse needs including developmental disabilities and physical challenges.
Equine-Assisted Learning
Equine-assisted learning programs use horse interactions to develop life skills like communication and problem-solving. Participants engage in ground-based activities that promote emotional regulation and teamwork. These sessions benefit children and adults seeking personal growth through experiential learning in a supportive environment.
Miniature Horse Lessons
Miniature horse lessons teach care, grooming, and handling skills to children, teens, and adults. Participants learn safety protocols and horsemanship fundamentals while developing empathy through animal interaction. Lessons occur weekly with seasonal sessions culminating in a public demonstration event.
Volunteer Programs
Volunteer opportunities include assisting riders, animal care, and facility maintenance. No prior experience is required, with training provided for roles supporting weekly programs and special events. Groups and individuals contribute to daily operations while gaining hands-on experience in therapeutic horsemanship.
Horse Shows
Annual horse shows feature adaptive riding competitions and miniature horse exhibitions. Events include walk/trot divisions and advanced classes for experienced riders. Participation develops goal-setting skills and provides recognition through competitive ribbons and awards programs.
People
Ben Nolt
President/Co-Founder
Ben Nolt co-founded CATRA in 1985 with his wife Shirley. A retired PA State Horse Racing Commission member, he developed the miniature horse program and continues guiding strategic initiatives while mentoring staff and volunteers.
Shirley Nolt
Lead Instructor/Co-Founder
Shirley Nolt established CATRA's therapeutic riding curriculum with 40+ years of equine experience. As lead instructor, she trains staff and volunteers while directly working with riders to develop personalized lesson plans that maximize therapeutic outcomes.
Theresa Moccio
Executive Director
Theresa Moccio oversees CATRA's daily operations and program expansion. With a background in nonprofit management, she ensures financial sustainability while maintaining service quality across therapeutic programs and community outreach initiatives.
Robin Helm
Program Developer
Robin Helm, M.Ed., created CATRA's HighHOPES equine-assisted learning curriculum. She designs interactive programs that combine therapeutic goals with educational objectives, focusing on communication skills and emotional development for children aged 7-11.
Cathy Gaster
Administrative Assistant
Cathy Gaster manages CATRA's administrative operations, coordinating registrations, volunteer scheduling, and program logistics. With over 15 years in nonprofit administration, she ensures smooth day-to-day functioning of therapeutic programs and special events.
Questions
What age groups participate in CATRA programs?
Our programs serve individuals from 12 months through senior citizens, with specialized offerings for children, teens, adults, and seniors.
Do you offer financial assistance for therapeutic riding?
Yes, we provide scholarships to ensure accessibility regardless of financial circumstances through donor-supported funding.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
Volunteers assist riders, care for animals, maintain facilities, and support events with training provided for all roles.
Are miniature horse programs available for non-riders?
Yes, our miniature horse lessons and camps focus on ground-based animal interaction and horsemanship skills.
How can groups participate in CATRA programs?
Scout troops, church groups, and organizations can schedule customized sessions for 3-30 participants with advance planning.
What safety measures are in place for riders?
All programs use specially trained therapy horses with certified instructors, require safety waivers, and provide equipment like helmets.
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