When most people think of horseback riding, they picture wide open fields, country clubs, or rustic ranches — not city streets and kids in sneakers holding the reins. But all across the country, urban horseback riding programs are changing that image in powerful ways, creating opportunities for young people, building confidence, and strengthening communities.

In August 2024, the American Horse Council (AHC) hosted a special webinar through its Youth Engagement and DEI Taskforces, highlighting several urban equine programs in the US. As AHC President Julie Broadway put it: “Each of these programs has powerful stories to share and offers unique experiences that have enriched countless young lives.”

Here’s a closer look at five inspiring programs that are making a real difference in the United States:

Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club – Philadelphia, PA

If you’ve seen Concrete Cowboy on Netflix, you’ve already had a glimpse into Fletcher Street’s story. Based in North Philadelphia, this club has been a part of the community for over 100 years. It’s a place where young people learn responsibility, gain confidence, and connect with the rich history of Black horsemen in America. Programs like this help preserve a legacy that’s often overlooked.

Read our blog on Concrete Cowboys: An insight Into the Lives of the Urban Black Cowboys of North Philadelphia: https://equinefacilitydesign.com/misc/concrete-cowboys-insight-lives-urban-black-cowboys-north-philadelphia.htm

Work to Ride – Philadelphia, PA

Also in Philadelphia, Work to Ride is a nonprofit, community-based prevention program that supports under-resourced urban youth through constructive activities centered on horsemanship, equine sports, and education. Based at the Chamounix Equestrian Center, the program has been empowering young people since 1994. It’s a long-term commitment: many participants stay involved from elementary school through high school. Work to Ride made history as the first all-Black polo team to win a national championship. Beyond the polo field, the program helps prepare youth for college, careers, and leadership opportunities.

STAND Foundation – Washington, D.C.

The STAND Foundation (Strengthening Thoughts and Nurturing Dreams) opens doors for underrepresented youth in the greater D.C. metropolitan area: “connecting them with horses, creativity, and community”. It was founded by Selina Brown to create a safe, healing space for youth from Southeast D.C., offering equine-assisted therapy, yoga, and meditation- helping youth manage stress, build resilience, and discover new career paths.

Detroit Horse Power – Detroit, MI

Detroit Horse Power is a nonprofit organization that teaches Detroit youth how to ride and care for horses, using these experiences to build critical life skills such as confidence, empathy, and perseverance. Since 2015, the organization has served over 1,000 young people from under-resourced communities through free summer camps and after-school programs. They are now building a 14-acre urban equestrian center, the largest of its kind in the U.S., to expand their youth development model and deepen their impact.

Legacy Equine Academy – Lexington, KY

In the heart of Kentucky’s horse country, the Legacy Equine Academy is working to change the face of the equine industry. Founded by Ron Mack, the academy introduces racially diverse youth to opportunities in horse racing, farm management, and equine sciences- building leaders for the future of the industry.

These programs challenge traditional ideas about who belongs in the horse world. They show that horseback riding can thrive anywhere — even in the heart of our cities — and that horses can be a powerful force for healing, growth, and community connection.

If you’d like to learn more or support these incredible programs, check out:

• Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club:  https://fsurc.com/
• Work to Ride: https://worktoride.net/
• STAND Foundation https://www.thestandfoundation.org/
• Detroit Horse Power: https://www.detroithorsepower.org/
• Legacy Equine Academy: https://www.legacyequineacademy.com/