LONGMONT, Colo. (KDVR) — The Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center says demand for equine-assisted therapy is the highest it’s been in the nonprofit’s 40-plus-year history — and costs to operate the program have climbed just as quickly. Now, the center is turning to the community for help.
CTRC launched its annual “Paint the Pony” campaign, setting its largest fundraising goal ever: $250,000. The money will support the organization’s herd of more than 30 specially trained therapy horses, maintain its 39-acre property, and expand access for riders who often wait years for a spot.
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The center currently serves nearly 500 riders annually, working with children and adults with a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. The waitlist now sits at more than 200 people, according to staff.
Rising costs and rising demand
Executive Director Michele Bruhn says everything from feed to veterinary care to staffing has become significantly more expensive in recent years — and the cost increases show no signs of slowing down.
“We’re just trying to match the rising costs of goods, horse care, feed — that’s gone up, hay that’s gone up — and then all of the wonderful things it takes to create the space, care for the riders, and provide care for the horses,” Bruhn said…