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...
Learn more about Rhonda and the impact she’s making at The Shea Center. Check out her Drive to Ride story and read on below to discover what makes her such an incredible part of our volunteer team! Why we love her: Rhonda is a leader, sidewalker, and barn crew member...
Sonya Violette, a native of Riverside, CA, brings a diverse background to The Shea Center. Before joining the organization, she spent over a decade as a preschool and kindergarten teacher and also owned a successful mortgage company. Sonya’s journey with The Shea...