Message SCENE +HERDN A P L E S T H E R A P E U T I C R I D I N G C E N T E RDennis Goodman Photography 2025 QUARTER 2NEWSLETTERDear Friends,Summer is in full stride here at NTRC, and with each passingday, we’re reminded how quickly time moves when you'resurrounded by purpose, progress, and connection. Everyweekday, our campus comes alive as summer campers climbinto the saddle.Time here moves like a story on film. Each day capturessomething meaningful: a breakthrough, a laugh, a moment ofcourage. And just like that, the scene shifts, but the impactremains.As we soak in these moments, we’re also reflecting on thelegacy that brought us here. This year marks a milestone thatspeaks to the heart of who we are.On November 8, 2025, beneath the lights of our main arena,we will celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the BootstrapBoogie Barn Dance, our most impactful fundraiser and one ofour most cherished traditions.In the months ahead, we will share tributes and stories fromthe past two decades, honoring the volunteers, horses, staff,and donors who have helped make each chapter possible. Wehope you will follow along as we celebrate the journey andthose who continue to guide us forward. We invite you tosubmit photos and memories of your experiences with NTRC.Here’s to a summer filled with reflection, celebration, and theincredible community that keeps NTRC moving onemeaningful stride at a time.Sincerely,The Naples Therapeutic Riding Center TeamW WW .N A PL ES T HE RA P E U TI C R I DI NG C EN TE R .O RG
PATH Intl. Certified Instrucor, Erica YoungIf you’ve ever visited NTRC, you’ve likely heard us say with pride that we are a PATH Intl. PremierAccredited Center, with all program staff certified through our accrediting body. But what does thatactually mean? Let’s break it down.PATH Intl. stands for the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. Since1969, PATH Intl. has led the industry in developing safety and ethical standards for equine-assistedservices. The founders recognized the need for a credentialing process to ensure the quality and safetyof programs serving individuals with additional needs.Today, the organization oversees more than 850 centers worldwide, and only a select number holdPremier Accredited Center status. These centers are evaluated using a comprehensive standards manualthat covers everything from administrative procedures to stirrup length and horse care. Certified staffmust complete extensive training to provide safe, ethical, and effective sessions for both participantsand horses.To maintain this status, centers undergo a detailed reaccreditation process every two years. In June2025, NTRC began that process. Thanks to the generous support of Brooks and Joan Fortune FamilyFoundation, we were more prepared than ever before. During their annual board visit to our campusearlier this year, we provided a tour and shared our upcoming goals. Moved by our mission, they offeredtheir support.With their funding, NTRC was able to certify four new instructors, maintain current staff certifications,and complete our reaccreditation process. Christina “Chrissy” Wilson, an Instructor in Training, is nowcompleting the final steps in her PATH Intl. certificationNTRC is currently opening a selection process for individuals interested in joining the Instructor inTraining program. To learn more, please email program@ntrc.org.And now, the best news of all: NTRC not only passed the reaccreditation—we aced it. Following our live site review, it was announced that weachieved full approval across every standard, achieving a perfect score of100%.This accomplishment reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, andthe Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation. Together, we continue toraise the bar and remain a leading force in the field of equine-assistedservices.
Marc HalcrowBoard of DirectorsF O L L O W U S O N SOCIALS! Reminders & UpdatesJoin us inWelcoming throughthe Barn DoorsWe’re Saddling Up for a Full Riding Season!We’re excited to announce that NTRC is returning to afull-season riding schedule beginning this September!Important Rider Renewal ReminderTo secure your spot for the upcoming session, pleasemake sure to complete all rider renewal paperwork bythe August 1, 2025 deadline. If you have any questionsabout your forms or eligibility, please reach out to theProgram Coordinator.Volunteer Updates & Action RequiredTo stay active in our system and continue supportinglessons and events, all volunteers are required to:Sign a new Hold Harmless AgreementUpdate contact information in CERVISThese updates are necessary to register for anyupcoming volunteer shifts or special events. If you needassistance navigating CERVIS, our team is happy to help.C E L EB R A T I N G 2 0 Y E A R S O F C O U N T R YC H A R M , C O M M U N I T Y , A N D I M P A C TN O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 2 5N O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 2 55 : 0 0 P M - 1 0 : 0 0 P M5 : 0 0 P M - 1 0 : 0 0 P M Y o u ’ r e i n v i t e d t o j o i n u s a t t h eY o u ’ r e i n v i t e d t o j o i n u s a t t h eKristen GoodmanBoard of Directors
2025Kentucky DerbyPartyLEARN MORE AB OUT EXCITI NG EVEN TS AT W WW.NTRC .ORG/EV ENTS
As guests arrived, they were greeted with festive photo opportunities, a tasting from a locally owned gincompany, and the charm of a horse trailer bar. After check-in, attendees gathered in the cool comfort ofthe CFF Event Space for cocktail hour featuring raffles, educational displays, and a crowd-favorite twist:Champagne Pong.When the call to the arena rang out, guests took their seats at beautifully set tables and enjoyed a variety ofelevated, hearty bites. The energy built toward one of the evening’s most anticipated moments—the LiveTherapy Horse Auction. Each of NTRC’s herd members represented a real Kentucky Derby contender, andsupporters placed spirited “bids” on their favorite pairings. If their horse finished in the top three, theytook home a prize. Every bid brought more than competition—it brought critical support to NTRC’sprograms.“The Kentucky Derby has always been about legacy, spirit, and the bond between horse and human. Andthat same energy lives right here at NTRC,” said John Wapelhorst, President of the Board of Directors.From the thrilling race viewing to the unmistakable sense of community in the arena, the evening was avibrant expression of NTRC’s mission. Funds raised will directly benefit children and adults with physical,social, and mental health needs, helping them find strength, confidence, and healing through interactionswith horses.This year’s event was a record-breaking success, thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, staff,committee members, and generous donors. The 2025 Kentucky Derby Party created lasting impact to thosewho need it most.Naples Therapeutic Riding Center’s 2025 Kentucky Derby Partygalloped to new heights, raising more than $230,000 in support of itsequine-assisted therapy programs. Held on Saturday, May 3, the sold-out event welcomed over 160 guests to NTRC’s scenic campus for anunforgettable afternoon of Derby-themed celebration rooted in apowerful mission.
Naples Therapeutic Riding Center206 Ridge Drive, Naples Fl 34108NAPLESTHERAPEUTICRIDINGCENTER.ORGinfo@ntrc.org (239)596-2988SCENE +HERDABOUT NTRCNaples Therapeutic Riding Center (NTRC) is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center dedicated to improving livesthrough equine-assisted services. Serving nearly 900 individuals annually, NTRC relies on over 15,000 volunteer hours and thegenerous support of organizations like the Naples Children & Education Foundation. Recognized as a 4-star charity by CharityNavigator, NTRC is one of Florida’s most highly regarded therapeutic equine centers. To learn more, visit www.ntrc.org.BOARD OF DIRECTORSJohn Wapelhorst- PresidentConnie Sharpe- Vice PresidentMario Valle- TreasurerElise Coutre- SecretaryKristen Goodman- DirectorMarc Halcrow- DirectorNewsletterThis year, our Summer Camp reached new heights thanks to a generous grant from The League Club. Theirsupport made it possible for us to expand to full-day programming, offer camp scholarships for the firsttime, and partner with Youth Haven to welcome children navigating especially challenging circumstances.The result? A 28.95% increase in participation, bringing more children than ever into the arena forconnection, growth, and joy.For many campers, it’s their first time around horses. For others, it’s a return to a place where they feelunderstood. Each day is filled with learning, laughter, and small moments that make a big difference. Camperspractice grooming, leading, riding, and bonding with their equine partners. A quiet child on Monday might beconfidently leading a group game by Friday. It’s not about riding perfectly. It’s about discovering what’s possible when you feel safe, supported, and seen.Our certified instructors and volunteers guide each camper with care and encouragement. And our therapyhorses meet every child exactly where they are, offering steady presence and quiet strength. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible volunteers and camp counselors whose energy, patience, and caremade this summer unforgettable for every camper.Program Spotlight: Summer Camp