Horses in the City
Pushing forward through obstacles and challenges, Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. broke barriers and defied stereotypes to become, and remain, the only Black woman and veteran-owned equine therapeutic and equestrian center of its kind in the Northeast. Our comprehensive programs and culturally competent therapeutic services continue to set us apart from all others in the region.
Patricia E. Kelly
Founder and President/CEO, Patricia Kelly
In 1984, Patricia E. Kelly—a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam-era veteran and African-American cowgirl—founded Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. (EHI) to provide urban youth and families with access to the healing power of horses.
Everyone Benefits
Horses have always been integral to Patricia’s life—from her early childhood experiences riding neighbors' horses to her adult years spent riding with fellow women for relaxation. In every instance, both horse owners and the horses themselves appreciated the time, exercise, and care she and her companions provided.
The inspiration to start EHI came when a child from a Hartford neighborhood asked Patricia, “Is that a real horse?”—a question that revealed how few opportunities many underserved youth had to connect with nature or experience equine life firsthand.
Her dream was to level the playing field for youth from urban communities, to give them access to the same opportunities, resources, equine-based programming, and equine-assisted therapy as their suburban counterparts. She knew this would be life-altering and enriching for those who became involved.
EHI has become the regional leader in providing culturally competent equine-assisted therapy and Psychotherapy. Mental health professionals, MSW, and BSW students can earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) approved by NASW/CT.
EHI also offers a certification course in Culturally Competent Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (CEAT) training.
Home Base
EHI operates from its Equestrian and Therapeutic Center in the historic landmark, Keney Park, a 693-acre park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. There are 25 miles of well-maintained trails throughout the park’s wooded area for riders to explore.
Our facility features spacious stables and both indoor and outdoor riding arenas, accommodating public lessons and advanced training for our jumping and dressage teams.
Contributions
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, EHI relies on funding from national, state, and local government grants, private foundations, individual contributions, and in-kind donations of products and services.
Each of our 16 horses requires $3,000 per year for food, boarding, training, and veterinary care. You can help us continue our good work with a donation today.