M.A.R.E.

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

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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.

Why the Horse?

The horse's walk provides sensory input through movement which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. The resultant movement responses in the client are similar to human movement patterns of the pelvis while walking. The variability of the horse's gait enables the therapist to grade the degree of sensory input to the client, then use this movement in combination with other clinical treatments to achieve desired results. Clients respond enthusiastically to this enjoyable learning experience in a natural setting.

Physically, hippotherapy can improve balance, posture, mobility and function. Hippotherapy may also affect psychological, cognitive, behavioral and communication functions for clients of all ages. Clients who may benefit from hippotherapy can have a variety of diagnoses: examples include Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Developmental Delay, Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Autism and Learning or Language Disabilities. However, hippotherapy is not for every client. Each potential client must be evaluated on an individual basis by specially trained health professionals.

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.

18200 Johnson Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93314 | Tel: 661-589-1877 | Fax: 661-589-2083 | E-mails