CATRA.....Twenty-five years!!

It all started with a desire to bring a quality therapeutic horseback riding program to the people of the Capital area of Pennsylvania.  We’d heard about such programs and were inspired to find out more about it while Shirley was giving riding lessons during 1981 to Kelly and Candy Dupler on their good old family pony named Thunder.  Research revealed that it had been tried before in the area and probably would not work.

When a thought enters your mind and Divine Intervention occurs, you are left with few choices. We accepted the challenge to learn as much as we could about horseback riding for people with disabilities.  The combination of a lifetime of experiences with horses, certifications in riding instruction and horse training, along with degrees in animal science and business management and many years of operating businesses and companies, prepared us to step out on Faith.  Many pieces of a large puzzle had to be put into place: find a place, design the business model, get incorporated, find riders, find volunteers, gather funds, equipment and supplies, and do everything possible to make it happen.  All the pieces fell into place, and in the fall of 1985, the Capital Area Therapeutic Riding Association, Inc. went from a vision to reality.

In the beginning there were two horses and four riders plus a handful of volunteers.  Our wildest dreams would have never revealed CATRA, as we all know it today.  The outreach is evidence of the multitude of Blessings received.  Now known locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, CATRA offers over 4500 rider hours each year.  The program is supported by all volunteer and volunteen power.  Though originally designed to address the physical and cognitive needs of our riders, the outcome is far greater than ever anticipated.  The lives of CATRA riders and their families are vastly impacted by the program.  Volunteers and volunteens have formed friendships that will be everlasting.  CATRA supporters continue to recognize the far-reaching value and impact of the program.  Recently someone said, “CATRA brings out the best in people!”

During this quarter century we have been blessed to be responsible and care for some of the most phenomenal animals.  CATRA critters have become integral in the lives of all who have known them.  Horses, ponies, minis and donkeys have not only lifted our bodies but have taken our spirits to greater heights.  The CATRA menagerie has a following all its own.  Without the animals, CATRA wouldn’t be.

The rest of the story is historical and truly miraculous.  We have shared the highest highs and the lowest lows, laughed and cried together, worked long and hard together, and celebrated together.

CATRA – a true witness to people and animals working together for a purpose.

Special thanks go to all who have been and to those who are a part of CATRA.

The first twenty-five years have been both glorious and humbling-----, and just think, the best is yet to come!

With much Love & many Blessings,

Ben & Shirley