MARE Riding Center

M.A.R.E. has been providing "Hope on Horseback" since 1990.

The vision began in 1990, when three local women dreamed of a better world for adults and children with disabilities. In September of that year, they joined forces to create: M.A.R.E. (Mastering Abilities Riding Equines). 

With the belief in the healing power of the horse, Diane Hopkins, Mary Literilla and Dorothy Evans broke the trail for special needs children and adults in Kern County by allowing them to experience freedom of movement, freedom of spirit, and freedom from judgment.  

Today, M.A.R.E. continues to provide “hope on horseback,” for 50 exceptional equestrians living in Kern County every week. M.A.R.E. is where miracles happen one stride at a time.

 

Beginning in 1990 with one horse and two riders, M.A.R.E. now serves 70+ riders with weekly equine-assisted therapies and activities.  Children and adults & veterans with physical, cognitive, social, psychological, developmental, and communication disabilities can be helped by the three-dimensional movement of the horse.  Improving core postural muscles and mobility increases the efficiency of all the systems on the body which, in turn, improves overall health and wellness. Improvement in motor planning, problem solving, fine and gross motor skills leads to accomplishment in getting in and out of a car or bathtub, self-dressing, self-feeding, and good feelings of self-confidence. 

Who We Are

M.A.R.E. Therapeutic Riding Center improves the lives of children, adults, and veterans with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities through equine-assisted activities and therapies.