Location: Santa Barbara, California, United States
Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center is a nonprofit equine-assisted services program that serves children and adults with special needs in Santa Barbara County. Founded in 1985, the center focuses on helping participants build capability, independence, strength, and confidence through meaningful work with horses.
Its programs include therapeutic riding, equine services for veterans, and horsemanship-based youth offerings such as Pony Pals. The center also uses its equine-assisted model to support participants with a wide range of physical and cognitive needs.
Hearts operates in Santa Barbara and maintains an active community program with specially trained therapy horses and a large volunteer base.
Key Details:
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Services: Therapeutic riding, veterans programming, and youth horsemanship activities
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Who they serve: Children and adults with special needs, including veterans
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Notable programs: Equine Services for Heroes and Pony Pals
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Facility or setting: Therapeutic equestrian center in Santa Barbara, California
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Certifications or credentials: Nonprofit equine-assisted services center with a long-running therapeutic riding program
Last Verified: March 12, 2026.