The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) announced recently that it has received an industry-elevating, three-year grant from the Suzanne McGraw Foundation Inc. PATH Intl. leads the advancement of professional equine-assisted services by offering its members and credentialed professionals rigorously developed standards, credentialing and education programs.

The purpose of the $825,000 grant is to substantially expand PATH Intl.’s Innovation Circles program, which provides valuable training to leaders of therapeutic horsemanship centers nationwide. A business-skill-development scheme, it focuses on fundraising, board development and best business practices for member centers of all sizes. The newly expanded program will include six months of one-to-one coaching for center administrators after each course is completed.

‘Deep commitment’

“The Suzanne McGraw Foundation, through its significant financial investment and partnership, has demonstrated its deep commitment to providing the training and skill development required for equine-assisted service providers to flourish and offer exemplary and safe services”, said Kathy Alm, CEO of PATH Intl.

“This grant will make it possible for PATH Intl. Member Center and Premier Accredited Center leaders to expand their knowledge of best-business practices bolstering their financial, organizational and mission success.”  

The foundation has worked closely with PATH Intl. to create the outline and timeline of the program. Program development will begin in April 2024. A search has begun for a full-time program manager of the expanded Innovations Circle program.

PATH Intl. leaders expressed their gratitude to the Suzanne McGraw Foundation Inc. for its forward-thinking partnership and support. Please watch for continued updates on the program and to learn how to be a part of this industry-bolstering initiative.

About PATH Intl.

The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International® (PATH Intl.) was formed in 1969. Its goal is to promote safety and optimal outcomes in equine-assisted services (EAS) for individuals with special needs and others. At 794 member centers, more than 46,600 children and adults, including 5,200 veterans, may find improved health, wellness and a sense of pride, independence and fun through involvement with horses.

Member centers offer therapeutic horsemanship including riding, driving, interactive vaulting, groundwork and stable management. Also offered are physical, speech and occupational therapies; mental health services incorporating horses; coaching and learning programs; and more. Nearly 40,000 volunteers, 4,863 PATH Intl. certified professionals, 5,250 horses and thousands of contributors worldwide help people at PATH Intl. Member Centers achieve their health, wellness and learning goals.

Successful EAS programs

Through a wide variety of educational resources and certification programs, the association helps individuals start and maintain successful EAS programs.

PATH Intl. offers the first and only independently accredited certification program in the EAS industry. The PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor® Certification, first accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies in 2022, demonstrates the competency of therapeutic riding instructors and adds credibility to the EAS industry as a career path.