Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program

Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program offers equine-assisted activities for children and adults with physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and other life challenges. The program serves almost 70 students each week and works with about 300 unduplicated people each year. Its motto is “Walk. Trot. Heal.”

• Ages: 0–18 years old

Founded in 1990 by Mary Ann Evans, PhD, the program began in the founder’s backyard with a single horse and was initially known as “4H Hearts.” It was operated by the UC 4H extension program for a decade before transitioning into a separate 501(c)(3) organization in 2000. The program is a Premier Accredited Center with PATH International, and the center undergoes rigorous audits by PATH Intl. every 5 years, while PATH Intl. certifies instructors and provides guidance and continuing education. The mission of Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program is to provide quality equine-assisted activities to children and adults with physical, cognitive, social, emotional and other life challenges, regardless of their ability to pay. Leadership contacts include founder Mary Ann Evans, PhD, programs contact Kim Dotzler, and volunteers contact Whitney Simpson.

Last updated June 25, 2026.