A Message from Our Founder & Board President, Diane Hopkins
The inspiration behind MARE Riding Center began with two extraordinary children, Angela and Matt, whom I met while working at a school for children with special needs. Both had Cerebral Palsy, and each day I watched their resilience and determination as we supported them through exercises to help them sit and walk. Their strength left a lasting imprint on my heart.
During that time, a Physical Therapist I worked alongside, knowing my background in therapeutic horseback riding in Texas, shared an idea that would change everything. He explained how the movement of a horse mirrors the human stride, sending neural stimulation through the spine and into the brain, supporting the skills necessary for walking. Then he said, “We can start our own therapy program in Bakersfield.”
That moment sparked a vision.
In 1990, with one horse, two riders—Angela and Matt—and a friend’s backyard, MARE Riding Center was born. What began humbly has grown into a thriving organization serving children, adults, and veterans through a wide range of equine-assisted programs.
MARE’s story is not just about how we started—it’s about what’s possible when compassion, innovation, and horses come together. Every day, I am inspired by the lives changed here and deeply grateful to the community that continues to believe in this mission.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
With gratitude,
Diane Hopkins
Founder & Board President
MARE Riding Center
Diane Hopkins
Founder & Board President
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Diane Hopkins — President & Founder
Lindsey Prentice — Vice President
Charlie McCarthy — Treasurer
Raquel Idolyantes — Secretary
John Wall — Past President
Board Members
Bob Wiebe
Kenny J. Spratt
Janae Peters
Tracy Miller
Dianne Kennedy
Join Our Board of Directors
At MARE Riding Center, our Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the future of our mission — helping individuals with special needs and disabilities experience growth, confidence, and connection through equine-assisted activities. Serving on the board is more than governance, it’s meaningful leadership, community impact, and the opportunity to help transform lives alongside an incredible team of passionate people.
We welcome individuals who care deeply about community service, believe in the power of horses to heal, and want to use their time, talent, and connections to make a lasting difference.
What Board Members Do?
Board members help shape MARE’s future by providing strategic leadership, supporting fundraising and outreach, and serving as ambassadors in the community. Members actively participate in meetings, committees, and organizational initiatives that strengthen our programs and long-term sustainability. We are especially excited to connect with individuals who bring diverse skills, professional expertise, and a heart for service.
Is Board Service Right for You?
Our board members are committed to supporting MARE through leadership, advocacy, and philanthropy, contributing their time, talent, treasure, and ties to advance the mission. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and help shape the future of an organization that changes lives every day, we invite you to explore board service with MARE.
Ready to Learn More?
Click below to review the application and take the first step toward joining our Board of Directors.
[Apply for Board Service →]