The Pilot House Community Farm

Location: Fairfield, Connecticut, United States

The Pilot House Community Farm is part of The Pilot House, a nonprofit community center in Fairfield, Connecticut, serving children, young adults, and adults with special needs. Founded in 2006, The Pilot House developed its community farm program after expanding its services to provide more hands-on, integrated opportunities for participants in everyday work and social settings.

Its equine services are part of a broader therapeutic and life-skills model rather than a stand-alone therapeutic riding center. The organization began its therapeutic horseback riding program in 2013, describing it as a mounted riding program designed to support cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being while promoting strength, flexibility, and self-esteem. In 2016, it expanded further by purchasing its Fairfield farm, where participants engage in planting, working with animals, landscaping, painting, and general farm maintenance.

The Pilot House operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and uses the farm setting to provide a community-integrated environment for practical learning and personal growth. Its equine work is woven into a wider program that includes social development, life skills, employment-related activities, and therapeutic support for individuals with autism, Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, sensory processing disorders, Down syndrome, and related needs.

Key Details:

Services: Therapeutic horseback riding, animal care, farm-based life skills, social programs, employment-related activities, and therapeutic support
Who they serve: Children, young adults, and adults with special needs, including individuals with autism, Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, sensory processing disorders, Down syndrome, and social or emotional needs
Notable programs: Therapeutic horseback riding program and community farm-based work and life skills programming
Facility or setting: Nonprofit community farm and equine-assisted program in Fairfield
Certifications or credentials: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

Last Verified: March 13, 2026.

Contact Information

FAQ

What types of equine therapy programs are offered here?

Most centers offer a mix of equine-assisted services (EAS), including therapeutic riding, groundwork activities, and sometimes equine-assisted therapy (EAT) with licensed professionals. Program availability varies by location.

Who can participate in programs like this?

Many equine-assisted programs serve children, teens, and adults with a wide range of needs, including physical disabilities, developmental challenges, learning differences, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Age ranges and participant eligibility vary by center.

Do I need prior horse experience to participate?

No. Programs are designed for beginners, and trained staff guide participants through every step using calm, well-trained therapy horses.

Is this a clinical therapy program or a recreational activity?

It depends on the center:

Equine-assisted therapy (EAT): Clinical therapy with licensed professionals
Equine-assisted activities (EAA): Non-clinical programs focused on skill-building and personal development

Contact the center to confirm what they offer.

How do I get started?

Most programs require a simple intake form and may include an initial assessment or trial session. You can contact the center directly using the information provided in the listing.

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