After nine months of planning, The Shea Center recently welcomed 136 attendees to the PATH Intl. Region 11 Conference. As the governing body for therapeutic horseback riding, PATH Intl. brings together leaders and professionals from across the field.

The pre-conference offered a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how The Shea Center partners with Orange County Fire Authority to train firefighters and first responders in large animal rescue.

The conference itself featured 26 breakout sessions covering best practices in horse care and training, volunteer engagement, fundraising, business systems, executive leadership, and equine-assisted services. Expert-led workshops combined horsemanship and therapy techniques with hands-on, real-world exercises across multiple stations.

Attendees also had meaningful opportunities to connect with a passionate community of peers, volunteers, and leaders—gaining fresh insights to strengthen their programs and expand their impact. Participants left inspired, re-energized, and equipped to apply what they learned to make a difference in their communities.