Twelve-year-old Georgia was diagnosed with autism and ADHD at the age of nine. When her mother, Jaymie, received the diagnosis, she knew immediately that The Shea Center was where she wanted to take her daughter for therapy. Unfortunately, there was a six-month...
Jannet, a happy kindergartner, has been a Shea Center speech client utilizing hippotherapy for the past year. She came to the Center to address challenges with speech delay and balance. Her mother, Jazmin, shares that Jannet’s love for riding is boundless—so much so...
For over 40 years, The Shea Center has been an enthusiastic participant in the San Juan Capistrano Swallows Day Parade, which is now in its 65th year. Every March, Shea Center clients, volunteers, and staff come together to celebrate the vibrant community spirit of...
Thank you to everyone who voted for us in The Capistrano Dispatch Best of San Juan Capistrano People’s Choice Horseshoe Awards. We won the Gold Award in two categories! Best Local Nonprofit Best Horse Training and a Silver Award too! Best Camp for Kids...
Learn about Tucker, who can tune in to human emotional cues and has become a star in the family military program. Why we love him: Tucker is a gentle, laid-back Quarter Horse gelding. His personality and smooth gait are great for various riders in all programs....
When people think of Shea Center volunteers, lesson volunteers often come to mind. However, the Center depends on a diverse group of volunteers to support its daily operations and ensure the success of our nonprofit organization. We have various volunteer roles such...
Congratulations to our volunteer of the month, Barb Reichel. Volunteer Services Manager Michele Gingras says, "Barbara is fun to be around; her sharp wit and warm personality make client lessons enjoyable and engaging!" Why we love her: Barb is a sidewalker dedicated...
Learn about Romeo, a great therapy horse excelling in our adaptive riding and military programs. Why we love him: Romeo is a tall and strong Quarter Horse gelding with a heart of gold. His solid build and gentle nature make him a valuable member of the herd,...
Did you know? We train volunteers to lead horses in our hippotherapy and adaptive riding lessons! Whether you're brand new to horses or have years of experience, we’ll teach you everything you need to know—The Shea Way. If you’re just starting, don’t worry! Your first...
Amelia is an adorable four-year-old preparing to start transitional kindergarten next fall. On her first birthday, she experienced cardiac and respiratory arrest, triggering a genetic activation event that led to her diagnosis of a rare and progressive condition known...