Mission Statement: To provide equine learning experiences for people with cognitive, physical and emotional challenges.

VALUES:   Acceptance  — Focus on Abilities - Increase Potential   — Educate   — Community Service

Miracles Happen One Stride at a Time

Mastering Abilities Riding Equines (M.A.R.E.)

Founded in 1990 by Diane Hopkins; Ron, Dorothy and Matt Evans; Angela and Mary Litterilla; and a wonderful Arabian mare named Tana -- the seeds of a therapeutic riding program were planted.

In the early days, lessons took place in a backyard arena provided by Dave and Linda Cain.

M.A.R.E. has grown steadily since 1990 and now provides therapeutic equine experiences to over 90 people per week.  Volunteers log approximately 800-service hours every month.  A large percentage of these hours are performed by local high school and college students committed to giving back to this community.

M.A.R.E. is a therapeutic riding center that provides equine assisted programs to children and adults with physical, cognitive or emotional challenges.

Serving Kern County with programs that include sport riding, equestrian vaulting, hippotherapy (services provided by a licensed health professional), carriage driving, and Summer Teen Equestrian Enrichment Program (STEEP).  These programs assist in the enhancement of self-esteem and confidence, normalized balance and muscle tone in addition to improvement of cognitive and problem solving skills.

M.A.R.E. is a premier accredited center with the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, (NARHA).  Its rustic atmosphere is enjoyed by many service groups and corporations for work days and team building service projects.

 
Whether a rider, volunteer, staff or horse: 

M.A.R.E. is the ultimate stress free experience

that leaves you feeling fulfilled, enriched and blessed.

 Click on our different pages to see how you can make a difference

Mia Franconi & Helen McKee

Photos by Tracy Lovelace

Back to Back winners of Beautiful Bakersfield
"All-American City" award 2003-2004