Hooves of Hope Equestrian Center, Inc.
Lancaster, Kentucky
Hooves of Hope Equestrian Center, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Lancaster, Kentucky, in Garrard County. It offers therapeutic riding, physical therapy using the horse's movement, equine-assisted learning for youth and a program for veterans. Its website says therapeutic riding is open to anyone with a diagnosis over age 4.
- Therapeutic riding taught by PATH certified instructors
- Physical therapy with a licensed physical therapist using the horse's movement
- Equine-assisted learning for youth
- Operation Hope veterans program
- Learning with Libby classroom literacy program with a miniature horse
- Children and adults with a diagnosis, age 4 and up (riding)
- People with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or spina bifida
- People with multiple sclerosis or developmental delays
- People with ADHD, anxiety, depression or PTSD
- Veterans
- First-grade classrooms (literacy program)
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, Hooves of Hope was founded in 2006 by Blair Newsome, and Laura Friday is executive director. Adaptive riding lessons are taught by PATH certified instructors, and physical therapy sessions are provided by licensed physical therapist Cindy Angel, who uses the horse's movement as a treatment tool.
The center also runs equine-assisted learning for youth focused on character, communication and responsibility, Operation Hope for people who have served in the military, and Learning with Libby, which brings a miniature horse into first-grade classrooms to support reading.
Community and Funding
Spectrum News 1 reported in April 2026 that the nonprofit served almost 300 people from more than 10 Kentucky counties in 2025, many from rural areas, and that it needed to raise $80,000 to keep operating this year after a family foundation's support ended. Its website lists spring, summer and fall riding sessions; the fall 2026 session ran late August to late October. Contact the center about upcoming sessions.
Location
Hooves of Hope is at 735 Chenault Bridge Road, Lancaster, KY 40444, in Garrard County. Office hours are listed as Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call (859) 792-8938 or email office@hoovesofhopeky.org.
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 get started?
For therapeutic riding, the website says new participants complete a Therapeutic Riding Program Application and a physicians form and email them to Programs@hoovesofhopeky.org. Call (859) 792-8938 with questions.
What ages does Hooves of Hope accept?
Its website says therapeutic riding is open to anyone with a diagnosis over age 4.
How much do sessions cost?
The website lists therapeutic riding at $45 per lesson, with payment for the full 7 to 8 week session due the first week. See our guide to equine therapy costs for general context.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. The center lists side-walker (16 and up), horse leader (18 and up), barn and office volunteer roles. Volunteers apply by email and attend an orientation.
Location
Lancaster, Kentucky 40444
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.