Horses for Hope TRC, Inc
Raleigh, North Carolina
Horses for Hope TRC, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit riding center on Banks Road in Raleigh, North Carolina, operating since 2003. It offers group therapeutic riding for riders age 4 and up with physical, cognitive and emotional needs, along with English, Western and trail lessons and camps.
- Group therapeutic riding (year-round)
- Seasonal 8-week therapeutic riding sessions
- Youth therapeutic riding scholarships (when offered)
- English, jumping and dressage lessons
- Western lessons
- Trail riding lessons
- Camps
- Volunteer opportunities
- Children and adults age 4 and up
- Riders with physical, cognitive and emotional needs
- Beginner through advanced riders
- Families, schools and scout groups
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, Horses for Hope uses horses to promote personal growth and healing. Therapeutic riding is taught in group lessons that aim to help riders develop balance, confidence and coordination. The center lists a year-round program and a seasonal 8-week session, when offered.
The center also teaches English, jumping, dressage and Western lessons for riders 4 and up, and trail riding lessons for ages 7 and up that start in the arena and finish on the farm's trails. Trail lessons must be scheduled in advance. It also lists specialty events such as birthday rides, camps, school trips and scout badge opportunities.
Getting Started
Families request therapeutic riding through an evaluation request form on the center's website. The scholarship page lists a $50 registration and evaluation fee. As listed, year-round therapeutic riding starts at $225 per month per person, with monthly packages including four lessons unless noted otherwise, and the seasonal 8-week program is $425.
The center often offers youth scholarships for riders ages 4 to 18 whose families need help with the cost and can commit to a full 8-week session. A scholarship covers tuition for one session and becomes official after the child is accepted into the program following a riding evaluation.
The Horses and Staff
Horses for Hope was founded by Gwen Roberts and Dawn Guenot. Elisabeth Brewer is the head instructor and lesson coordinator, and Whitney Potts is the barn manager. The center describes itself as a working farm and volunteer-led nonprofit with a few paid staff, and supporters can sponsor a horse to help cover feed and farrier bills.
Volunteering
Volunteers help with riding programs, camps, maintenance, social media content and fundraising. Individuals and households sign up through separate forms on the volunteer page, and questions can go to volunteer@horsesforhope.org.
Location
Horses for Hope is located at 2905 Banks Road, Raleigh, NC 27603. Public hours vary, so the center recommends making an appointment before visiting. Call (919) 906-3363 or email information@horsesforhope.org to arrange one.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do we sign up for therapeutic riding?
Complete the therapeutic riding evaluation request form on the Horses for Hope website. New riders pay a $50 registration and evaluation fee, according to the scholarship page.
What ages does the therapeutic riding program accept?
The center says therapeutic riding is open to all ages 4 and up.
How much does therapeutic riding cost?
As listed, year-round therapeutic riding starts at $225 per month per person, and the seasonal 8-week session is $425. The center often offers youth scholarships for ages 4 to 18; see its scholarship page or call (919) 906-3363. Our guide to equine therapy costs explains typical pricing.
Can I visit the farm?
Public hours vary, so the center recommends making an appointment. Call (919) 906-3363 or email information@horsesforhope.org to schedule a visit.
Location
Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.