Therapeutic horsemanship, or riding and working with horses, is a proven way to facilitate physical, social, and emotional benefits. So, Cloverleaf uses these methods to help people with disabilities, youth from marginalized communities, and recovering military personnel become their healthiest, most independent selves. In small groups, summer camps, and private lessons, participants receive personal attention from staff and volunteers as they learn to work with horses, developing strong social bonds while improving their physical health. Certified therapists lead one-on-one physical therapy sessions, while counselors use horses and their movements as treatment tools to focus on mindfulness. Participants build academic and life skills, including teamwork and anger management through small-group, equine-assisted learning services. For many of its 150 weekly clients and 200 volunteers, Cloverleaf’s farm is where they can authentically develop and create connections.

Headquarters: VA-Fairfax County

Where They Operate: VA-Fairfax County

Age Groups Served: All

Population(s) Served: Individuals with Disabilities; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Veterans/Military Families


  • Number of lessons/therapy sessions sprovided:   1,145
  • Number of people (clients, patrons, students, etc) we serve annually:   285

Awards & Recognition

Children's Charities Foundation, Star for Children Award, December 2014

Press

Budget (FY2022)

  • $3 million or higher
  • The current budget for Cloverleaf Equine Center (formerly Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program) is: $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

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