Scholarships

The healing power of horses should be within reach for all who can benefit.

To ensure cost is never a barrier to participation, MTR offers scholarships made possible by the generosity of our supporters. These funds help individuals with a wide range of needs and circumstances access the transformative experience of equine-assisted therapies.

Lilley’s Lessons Scholarship Fund

The Lilley’s Lessons Scholarship Fund was created to ensure that individuals can access the life-changing benefits of equine-assisted therapies, regardless of financial barriers. Inspired by Lilley, a joyful and determined young rider who found connection, strength, and progress at MTR, this fund honors her memory and the profound impact horses had on her life.

From her first ride at age 9, MTR became a vital part of Lilley’s care—supporting her speech, mobility, and emotional well-being as she lived with a rare degenerative disorder. The bond she formed with her horse, along with the unwavering care from providers, volunteers, and her family, offered hope and healing. Though Lilley passed away at age 19, her spirit continues to guide and inspire us. Through this scholarship, her legacy brings opportunity and transformation to other children and families in need.

The Lilley’s Lessons Scholarship Fund was established by Nancy Spiesman—Lilley’s first side-walker and a former MTR Board Member—in memory of her father, Jim Spiesman.

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Horses in Motion for MS Scholarship

Established in 2017 through a generous gift from Dr. Mira Lessick—a passionate horse owner living with Multiple Sclerosis—MTR’s Horses in Motion for MS Scholarship honors the healing strength of the horse-human connection. Inspired by her own experience of improved mobility, independence, and emotional well-being through time spent with her horse, Dr. Lessick created this fund to help others with MS access the life-changing benefits of equine-assisted therapies.

Today, the scholarship continues to offer financial assistance to adults over 18 with MS, made possible thanks to the generosity of donors who believe in this work. While funds are available, we are proud to provide access to these powerful therapies—and with continued support, we can ensure even more individuals find strength, connection, and healing in the saddle.

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Equine Services for Heroes Scholarship

MTR’s Equine Services for Heroes Scholarship honors the courage and sacrifice of our military service members, veterans, first responders, and their families by providing equine-assisted therapies at no cost. These programs create a powerful space for connection, recovery, and renewal—supporting emotional and physical well-being, strengthening resilience, and offering moments of peace for those who give so much to protect and serve others.

Available as long as funding allows, this scholarship is made possible through the compassion and generosity of our community. With continued support, we can ensure that those who stand for us are never without a place to heal, connect, and rediscover their strength alongside a trusted equine partner.

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Anastasia’s Light Mental Health Scholarship

The Anastasia’s Light Mental Health Scholarship was created to ensure that individuals have access to the healing benefits of equine-assisted mental health therapies at MTR, regardless of financial barriers. Inspired by Anastasia Gumbel and the light and love she so freely shared with others, this fund honors her life and her dedication to helping others.

From an early age, Anastasia was full of sunshine. She was a bright, kind soul who brought warmth to those around her. Through her support of her teammates in swimming, her passionate performances on stage, and her natural ability to lead and encourage others, she consistently uplifted the people in her life.

To continue shining her light, her family founded Anastasia’s Light, a non-profit dedicated to providing access to alternative therapies that offer hope, connection, and support for mental health. Funds to start this scholarship were raised through the Tread for Tomorrow fundraiser, organized by Anastasia’s Light, and will provide financial support for individuals seeking mental health services at MTR.

Through this scholarship, Anastasia’s light continues to spread to others, guiding them toward healing and empowering them to find their own light.

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