Return to flip book view

SCENE +HERDNAPLES THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER© Dennis Goodman Photography 2025 QUARTER 1NEWSLETTERDear Friends,I want to take a moment to say thank you. Whether you’re avolunteer, donor, rider, or friend, you are part of what makes thiscommunity so special. Your support allows us to continueImproving Lives One Stride at a Time, and I couldn’t be moregrateful.There’s so much to look forward to in the coming months! OurKentucky Derby Party is right around the corner, and I hope you’lljoin us for an afternoon of fun, fashion, and philanthropy on May 3.It’s a great excuse to put on your Derby best, enjoy time withfriends, and, most importantly—support the programs that changelives at NTRC.We’re also gearing up for Summer Camps, and I can’t wait to see thejoy on the kids’ faces as they connect with our incredible herd.Watching their confidence grow in the saddle and on the groundreminds us why we do what we do.Every day, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to be part of thisamazing community—the kindness, generosity, and passion ofpeople like you make NTRC such a special place. I hope to see yousoon—at the Derby Party, Summer Camp, or just around the barn!With gratitude,Laura BurnsExecutive DirectorWWW.NAPLESTHERAPEUTICRIDINGCENTER.ORG Message

In his later years, Colt faced tremendous hardship. Malnourished and weary, he was rescued by the EquineRescue and Adoption Foundation (ERAF) and Animal Control. Yet even in his fragile state, the team at ERAFsaw something special: a spirit that was wounded, but unbroken.Through careful rehabilitation—nutrition, medical care, and patient handling—Colt regained his strength. Hisquiet, intuitive nature began to shine. ERAF enrolled him in their Begin Again program, preparing him for asecond chance at life through equine-assisted therapy. When the time came for an adoption conversation, Coltfound a new home at NTRC.From the moment he arrived, Colt stepped into his role with grace. In riding sessions, therapy visits, andground-based activities, he meets each participant with calm assurance. He carries their trust—and theirprogress—with every stride.Here at NTRC, Colt’s future is secure. He receives personalized care, regular veterinary oversight, and thedaily love and attention he deserves. He is safe. He is loved. Through programs like NTRC’s equine retirement,Colt will receive care and comfort for the rest of his life. The Honor Stable: Colt’s Journey from Rescue to RemarkableYou can see it in his eyes—the wisdom of a horse who has known hardship, and the gentleness of one whochooses to trust again. His steps are steady, his presence calm, and when he lowers his head beside anervous rider, something unspoken happens: fear softens, shoulders relax, and connection begins.This is Colt. Today, he’s one of the most trusted and beloved therapy partners at Naples TherapeuticRiding Center (NTRC) but his history is marred by a period of neglect. His story is not just one of survival—it’s one of purpose, healing, and the quiet power of second chances.Colt’s journey from rescue to safe haven has forever changed the lives of those who meet him—andperhaps, most profoundly, it has changed his own. With every stride he takes in our arena, he remindsus that healing is mutual, and that love and care can rewrite even the hardest chapters.As we celebrate Colt’s first year at NTRC, we honor not only where he’s been—butall the lives he’s helped transform. Once in need of rescue, Colt now helps othersrise. Thanks to our supporters, his future is filled with purpose and care.Want to be part of his journey? Colt—and other herd members—are availablefor sponsorship. Your support helps provide essential daily care, feed, andveterinary services for these incredible therapy partners.To learn more or become a sponsor, email michelle@ntrc.org.Pictured: Colt and Volunteer Nancy

Cindy Borzilleri, a retired teacher from Pennsylvania, discovered herpassion for equine therapy at the Therapeutic Riding Center of CumberlandCounty (TRACC). When she moved to Naples in 2019, she was driving downGoodlette-Frank Road with her 19-year-old cat, Elvis, when she passed theNTRC sign. Feeling an undeniable pull, she turned to Elvis and said, “I needto go in there and reconnect with horses.” He agreed. A few weeks later, sheofficially became a volunteer.Since then, Cindy has been a dedicated sidewalker, leader, and minivolunteer, witnessing incredible moments of progress as riders gainconfidence and independence. One young rider summed up the magic ofNTRC perfectly, telling her each week, “Mrs. B, I love this place.” Herresponse? “Me too.”For Cindy, the heart of NTRC lies in the riders, instructors, and, of course,the horses—each one leaving a lasting impact. She has formed specialconnections with many equine partners over the years, cherishing theirunique personalities and the role they play in changing lives. Her advice tofellow volunteers: “Approach each session with calm and positivity—horsesand riders alike will respond to your energy. And most importantly, enjoyevery step of the journey.”Kentucky Derby PartyMay 3, 2025Cindy Borzilleri Mini TeamJoin us in WelcomingWe’re thrilled to welcome MichelleSchweber to NTRC as our newDevelopment Director! Herleadership and passion for making adifference are already bringing greatenergy to the team.Savannah WillDevelopment AssistantAs a Collier County local, Savannahbrings uplifting energy, excellentorganizational skills, and a heartfeltcommitment to supporting those inour community.Michelle SchweberDevelopment DirectorKristen has dedicated her work tohelping families preserve theirmemories and legacies throughpersonalized photo and media services.Her passion for capturing life’smeaningful moments reflects her heartfor people and her commitment togiving back.Kristen’s connection to the naturalworld, her entrepreneurial spirit, andher longstanding support of localorganizations—including NTRC—makeher a valuable and inspiring addition toour leadership team.Kristen GoodmanBoard of DirectorsFOLLOW US ON SOCIALS! SAVE THE DATE5 Years of ServiceVolunteerSpotlightLeaderSidewalkerOutreach & EventsJoin us for a lively and elegant Kentucky Derby-themedevent with race streaming, gourmet food, a live horseauction, and interactive fun—all in support of NTRC’sprograms. Get your tickets at www.ntrc.org/kentucky-derby.Sound Bath MeditationApril 25, 2025Relax, reset, and recharge alongside our therapy horses during aunique 9D sound bath led by Erica Nagel of 1111 SoundHealings. Surrounded by calming frequencies and the naturalenergy of horses, you’ll experience deep rest and emotionalbalance.To reserve your space click here.

On a beautiful evening filled with laughter, gratitude, and the comforting aroma of Italian cuisine, NTRC hosted ourannual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner—celebrating the heart and soul of our organization: our volunteers.Themed "A Taste of Italy," the event transported guests to a festive, trattoria-style celebration complete withdelicious food, joyful conversation, and heartfelt recognition. From chicken parm and song to cheers and shared memories, it was a night dedicated to saying thank you to theincredible individuals who give their time, energy, and hearts to our mission. Whether mucking stalls, walking besidea rider, or helping with events, every volunteer plays a part in changing lives—one stride at a time. You are appreciated beyond words.Grazie mille, volunteers—you make everything we do possible!LEARN MORE ABOUT EXCITING EVENTS AT WWW.NTRC.ORG/EVENTSVolunteer Appreciation Dinner March 15, 2025

“Our daughter Nevaeh is 8 years old and has a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Like many girls her age,she has a deep love for animals. We began our journey with Naples Therapeutic Riding Centerabout four years ago, and from the moment she first mounted a horse—her name was Patty—we saw a spark of joy and confidence we hadn’t seen before.The rhythmic movement of the horse provides sensory input that simply can’t be replicated intraditional therapy. Since beginning therapeutic riding, Nevaeh has developed more physicalstrength and endurance, which has translated into greater participation in everyday life. Mostimportantly, she’s gained a sense of independence. When she’s on a horse, she can move freelywithout relying on others—and in Nevaeh’s world, that is a very big deal.The trust she has in the horses, her weekly determination to improve, and the bond she shares withher equine partners are powerful. Riding has also given us a sense of community. It’s helped usbuild friendships, share our story, and feel less alone. The smiles, the laughter, and the memorieswe’ve made in the arena are gifts we will cherish forever.For us, horseback riding isn’t just a hobby—it’s a source of strength, joy, and independence.It allows us to celebrate Nevaeh’s uniqueness and reminds us that nothing is impossible. Watchingher ride is one of the highlights of my week. Even though she’s working hard, she enjoys everysecond of it.”The Healing Rhythm of Riding: Nevaeh’s StoryRiding with a mile-wide smile, Nevaeh circles the arena atop her favoritetherapeutic partner, Clyde. Ask her about their bond, and it’s not wordsthat describe it best—it’s the unmistakable joy and trust that lights up herface. For Nevaeh, Clyde represents more than just a horse. He’s a partnerin her journey toward strength, independence, and confidence.Through Naples Therapeutic Riding Center’s therapeutic riding program,Nevaeh works on physical skills like coordination, core strength, andmuscle tone—skills that support her in everyday life. But beyond that,riding offers her something even more significant: a sense of freedom.At NTRC, our participants’ stories are our strength, motivation, and inspiration. Every stride, every smile, andevery shared moment between horse and rider speaks to the life-changing power of equine-assisted services.Learn more about our impactful programs at www.ntrc.orgNevaeh’s mom, Erin, has witnessed the transformation firsthand.

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center206 Ridge Drive, Naples Fl 34108NAPLESTHERAPEUTICRIDINGCENTER.ORGinfo@ntrc.org (239)596-2988ABOUT 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- DirectorSCENE +HERDNewsletterEvents at Naples Therapeutic Riding Center create the funding foundation that supports, builds upon, andupholds the organization's mission. Because of the sponsors listed below and event participants, our horses receive a secure retirement atCamp Rusk. Thank you!