Therapeutic horsemanship, or riding and working with horses, is a proven way to facilitate physical, social, and emotional benefits. So, Cloverleaf uses these methods to help people with disabilities, youth from marginalized communities, and recovering military personnel become their healthiest, most independent selves. In small groups, summer camps, and private lessons, participants receive personal attention from staff and volunteers as they learn to work with horses, developing strong social bonds while improving their physical health. Certified therapists lead one-on-one physical therapy sessions, while counselors use horses and their movements as treatment tools to focus on mindfulness. Participants build academic and life skills, including teamwork and anger management through small-group, equine-assisted learning services. For many of its 150 weekly clients and 200 volunteers, Cloverleaf’s farm is where they can authentically develop and create connections.
Headquarters: VA-Fairfax County
Where They Operate: DC-Ward 8; VA-Fairfax County
Age Groups Served: All
Population(s) Served: Individuals with Disabilities; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Veterans/Military Families
- Number of lessons/therapy sessions provided (2023):
5,562 - Number of people (clients, patrons, students, etc) we serve annually:
381
Awards & Recognition
Children's Charities Foundation, Star for Children Award, December 2014
Press
- Healing with Horses | Equine Therapy for veterans
Fri Nov 11 2022, WUSA TV 9
- As suicides rise, US military seeks to address mental health
Mon Oct 10 2022, Associated Press
- OPEN MIC Northern Virginia horse riding program helping disabled kids, adults, recovering military
Mon Aug 8 2022, WUSV TV 9
- Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program makes a difference
Fri Apr 15 2022, Fairfax Times
- Horse of Action
Thu Sep 15 2016, Fairfax Station Connection
Profile of NVTRP rider Cesar Dulanto and upcoming Ride to Thrive Polo Classic fundraising event.
Budget (FY2022)
- $3 million or higher
- The current budget for Cloverleaf Equine Center is: $1 million to $3 million
- $500k to $1 million
- Less than $500k
Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to
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