Celebrating 30 Years of Horses, Healing & Hope

This year, MTR proudly celebrates 30 years of transforming lives through the connection between humans and horses.

What began in 1996 as a small therapeutic riding program has grown into a nationally recognized organization providing a broad range of equine-assisted services for children, adults, veterans, first responders, and families. Today, MTR serves more than 700 individuals each year and has become a leader in the equine-assisted services profession, while never losing sight of the simple belief that inspired its beginning: horses can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

As our founders, Naomi and David Parry reflected, “We started Maryland Therapeutic Riding with a simple hope: to bring horses and people together in a way that could make a meaningful difference.” Thirty years later, that hope has grown beyond what they could have imagined.

Over the years, programs have expanded, our community has grown, and thousands of lives have been touched. But the heart of MTR remains the same. It can be seen in a participant discovering new confidence or independence, a family finding connection and belonging, a volunteer giving their time, and the remarkable horses who make these moments possible.

Thirty years of MTR is also a celebration of the people who have made this journey possible. From our founders and earliest supporters to the participants, families, volunteers, donors, staff, partners, and friends who are part of MTR today, each has helped shape the organization we have become.

And while this anniversary gives us an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come, it also marks the beginning of an exciting next chapter. As MTR continues to grow and plan for the future, we remain committed to expanding our impact, strengthening our services, and ensuring that the healing connection between horses and people continues for generations to come.

Thank you for believing in MTR, growing with us, and being part of these incredible first 30 years. Here’s to all that we will make possible together in the years ahead!