Formerly known as Lesson Treatment Assistants (LTAs), the Program Support Team (PST) is among the most vital members of The Shea Center staff, and the name change says it all. They don't support just one department; they support every program department. From our core...
If you've attended an event at The Shea Center, chances are Kelli Navarro had a hand in making it happen. As Event Logistics Manager and Equine Assisted Learning Program Administrator, she helps create meaningful experiences for clients, families, volunteers, donors,...
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...
At The Shea Center, one method of steering a horse during a hippotherapy treatment is called ground driving. Ground driving involves “driving”, or controlling, the horse from behind with long lines attached to the bridle. This technique is used to optimize the horse’s...
Did you know that all the arenas and round pens at The Shea Center together hold over 500 tons of sand? Did you also know the sand is a special blend composed of at least nine different particle sizes to achieve a crucial balance of cushioning, stability, and...
The Shea Center deeply appreciates our 2025 grant donors and the generous general operating and program support they provide. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the individuals, organizations, and foundations whose recent contributions make a lasting...
Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Holly spent 15 years in Chicago before settling in Dana Point in 2002. She holds a BA in Religious Studies and Philosophy, along with graduate degrees in Psychology and Business from the University of Chicago. Her career in...
The health and happiness of our horses are essential for providing safe and effective equine assisted services for our more than 1,200 annual clients. Thank you to our 2025 horse sponsors for making this possible. Platinum Champion Sponsor Amerman Family...
Round pens are an indispensable asset for training horses in a controlled environment, whether on the ground or under saddle. They are commonly used for free join-up, lunging, and riding. The circular shape supports safe, effective groundwork where the handler can...
Amber Offield began volunteering at The Shea Center over 20 years ago as a lesson volunteer many years before marrying her husband, Calen. When the Center began receiving generous gifts in honor of their marriage, we were delighted to reconnect with Amber—whose...