Hope Through Horses
Under a canopy of oak trees, the CHAPS Center offers peace and hope to the Central Florida community through a variety of equine-assisted therapies. A non-profit on a mission to educate, empower and enrich the local community. CHAPS Center professionals and volunteers are passionate about the people they serve and the equine partners they work alongside to provide a unique therapeutic experience.
Testimonials
My son has an ASD diagnosis and has been going to CHAPS for adaptive riding lessons for years. They are very willing to incorporate current goals from other therapies, as well as work at your child's pace. We love it here!
- Elizabeth C
Parent
Educate
When I first came to chaps I was actually afraid of horses. Stemming from a bad past experience. But within a week I not only knew the horses names but I was grooming them. The staff here is absolutely amazing and has empathy like no other. I truly appreciate everything that Chaps did for me.
- Lynn H.
Volunteer
Empower
I have been volunteering at CHAPS for over six years and they have become my second family. It is the highlight of the week seeing the students blossom, interacting with the other volunteers, and handling the horses. Finally, I cannot overstate my appreciation to the people who make this possible
- Charles M.
Volunteer
Enrich
We are forever grateful for that day we brought Lindsey to CHAPS in 2016. It has made a major difference in her life. Lindsey was a 6-year-old when we started, and we quickly noticed her speech coming back after being almost voiceless since the onset of autism symptoms around age 2. Still after all these years, she still enjoys her horse therapy day. Thank you Ms. Jeannie, Chaps staff and volunteers for all you have done for Lindsey.
- Vivian S.
Parent
Grow
We had an excellent experience. Great teacher, staff and volunteers. The horses are wonderful with the students.
- Maureen S.
Parent
Community
News
Through the Volunteer Portal you'll be able to sign up for volunteer sessions, log and download your own hours, find more ways to be a part of our community and so much more! You can make a huge impact in the lives of our students by joining our volunteer team! Volunteer opportunities include horse grooming, tacking, side-walking, horse handling and lots of joy and laughter! Our new portal comes with an app for easy communication and sign ups!
New Volunteer Portal
Our mission is to ensure that every participant, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and therapeutic benefits of horse riding. We have a fundraiser goal of $10,000 to improve accessibility to our pathways and provide much-needed shade to enhance the experience for our community. Our diverse group of participants includes children with special needs who find solace and empowerment in interacting with our gentle equine friends. Your support will not only create a more inclusive and welcoming space but also open up new possibilities for our riders to engage with the world around them in a meaningful way. Your Donation will have a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Alternatively, you can join us in making a difference by signing up for our upcoming facility maintenance days through our Volunteer Portal. Every pair of helping hands brings us closer to our goal. Thank you for being a part of our journey towards a more accessible and inclusive arena for all.
Shade + Accessibility Improvement Fundraiser
Site Work Wishlist
We have a great team of people ready to help our program, but we have some very practical needs that fulfilled would keep our facility looking its best. We are located on 10 beautiful acres with a wooded trail, green pastures and grass riding rings that we need to keep maintained. We've put together a Wishlist for some improved equipment and facilities needs! We also have a day to day Wishlist for our horses on Amazon and Dover!
If you have had the pleasure of riding, caring for, or helping with Belle, please continue to be a part of her story by donating today! Belle sustained a tendon injury a few months ago and we need help financially to continue her veterinary care. The vet is very encouraged by her progress and she has been an incredible patient. She is currently in a rehab regimen and we hope to have her back into the program by January. Donate to her campaign here.
Fundraiser for Belle
We have a great team of people ready to help our program, but we have some very practical needs that fulfilled would keep our facility looking its best. We are located on 10 beautiful acres with a wooded trail, green pastures and grass riding rings that we need to keep maintained. We've put together a Wishlist for some improved equipment and facilities needs! We also have a day to day Wishlist for our horses on Amazon and Dover!
Site Work Wishlist
Site Work Wishlist
We have a great team of people ready to help our program, but we have some very practical needs that fulfilled would keep our facility looking its best. We are located on 10 beautiful acres with a wooded trail, green pastures and grass riding rings that we need to keep maintained. We've put together a Wishlist for some improved equipment and facilities needs! We also have a day to day Wishlist for our horses on Amazon and Dover!
Our Sponsors
The CHAPS Center’s programs rely heavily on the generosity of volunteers, donors and sponsors who allow us to continue to make a difference in the community. The program's success is dependent on the participation of our incredible horses and the individuals who are willing to help. Thank you for considering becoming a sponsor of the CHAPS Center’s programs. Your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those in our community who need it most. Partner with us today!
