Welcome to the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA), where our heart beats with a BIG mission: to empower and uplift individuals living with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges through the healing power of horses. For four decades, MTRA has been a beacon of hope and support in Marion and surrounding counties, offering transformative therapeutic horseback riding and Equine Assisted Learning Activities.
Our journey began 40 years ago, and since then, we’ve been steadfast in our commitment to enhancing the lives of children and adults in our community. As a cherished part of Ocala, Florida — the esteemed Horse Capital of the World™ — we celebrate the remarkable bond between humans and horses, leveraging this connection to foster growth, healing, and joy.
Proudly, we are a PATH Premiere Accredited Center, a recognition that underscores our dedication to providing the highest standard of therapeutic equestrian activities. Our team of instructors are not only passionate about their work but are also Credentialed Therapeutic Riding Instructors (CTRI), ensuring that each participant receives expert, compassionate guidance tailored to their unique journey.
We understand the financial considerations of accessing quality therapeutic services, which is why we are an approved provider through select health insurance companies. Moreover, we are proud to offer some of our programs at no cost for eligible participants, thanks to the generous support we receive through grants, fundraising, and our innovative Peer to Peer campaigns, designed to make supporting an individual’s journey more accessible.
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Our scholarship opportunities, though limited, reflect our commitment to inclusivity and support, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder anyone’s path to healing. It’s important to note that the income from our programs covers only a fraction of the costs required to maintain our excellence. The care of our horses, upkeep of our PATH Premiere certified facility, and the dedication of our staff and certified instructors necessitate ongoing community support. We are immensely grateful for the donations, grants, and partnerships that sustain our mission and enable us to continue our work.
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we reflect on the countless lives touched and transformed through our services. Nestled on the pristine Florida Greenway land, our facility stands as a testament to community collaboration and support, initially established with a Community Block Grant from Marion County.
We invite you to explore, engage, and become part of the MTRA family. Whether you have questions, wish to contribute, or want to learn more about the Florida Greenway, we are here for you. Together, let’s continue to create a world where the therapeutic power of horses enriches lives, fosters resilience, and celebrates the human spirit. Connect with us to discover more about our mission and how you can be a part of this extraordinary journey. If you have questions about our program, please email our Executive Director, or call our offices Tuesday through Saturday at 352-732-7300.
MTRA is proud to be a member of the following Community Groups
Our mission: Marion Therapeutic Riding Association strives to enhance lives using the healing power of human and horse connection. This unique pairing unleashes new abilities that grant purpose and envision greater opportunities. We serve persons of all capabilities with physical, emotional, or intellectual challenges through Equine Assisted Activities.
Serving the heart of Florida since 1985, Marion Therapeutic Riding Association (MTRA) is a PATH Premier Accredited organization.
MTRA on the Greenway
MTRA has been hosted on land leased from the Cross Florida Greenway for over 30 years!