Nonprofit news: Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center receives $200,000 donation

Ashley Quesnel on Goody, left, and Kathy Gray on Lilly, right, are led around the arena on their horses at the Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center in 2022. [File photo by Bruce Ackerman]

Stirrups ‘n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center has announced a $200,000 donation from the Adam Hanson Better Communities Fund, which will help purchase the property where the center is located, on Highway 318 between Orange Lake and Citra.

Stirrups ‘n Strides provides therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities for individuals with disabilities. The programs offer physical, cognitive and emotional benefits, fostering confidence, independence and overall well-being for participants of all ages, according to Betty Gray, executive director.

“This incredible gift from the Adam Hanson Better Communities Fund is truly transformative for Stirrups ‘n Strides,” said Gray in a news release. “Securing the purchase of our current property has been a long-term goal and this donation brings us significantly closer to realizing that dream. It will allow us to continue serving our community without the uncertainty of future relocation and to expand our reach to help even more individuals.”

Adam Hanson Better Communities Fund grants are awarded to organizations related to education, health care, public libraries or public parks. Stan and Martha Hanson established the fund in memory of their son, Adam, who died in 2006, to honor his involvement in community volunteer activities, Gray noted.

“We are honored to support Stirrups ‘n Strides in their mission to provide therapeutic riding services. Their dedication to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities aligns perfectly with our foundation’s values and we are confident that this investment will have a lasting impact,” said Stan Hanson in the release.

To learn more, go to stirrupsnstrides.com