BREWSTER – For more than 50 years, Pegasus Therapeutic Riding in Brewster has enhanced the lives of children and adults with disabilities and other challenges through equine-assisted activities and education at their sprawling facility in Southeast.
In 1975, Pegasus began by helping children with special needs. From the beginning, horses gave them more than just a ride, they offered movement, routine, and a bond that opened new doors.
Now as communities across the country look for new ways to address rising levels of stress, trauma, anxiety, and isolation, Pegasus has opened Hope Arena, a new covered arena that expands access to equine-assisted programs focused on healing, resilience, and emotional well-being.
Hope Arena provides a dedicated space where participants can take part in ground-based equine-assisted activities year-round in an arena designed for groundwork with horses where according to Candice Sciarrillo, Pegasus Executive Director, through guided interactions, participants build trust, strengthen confidence, improve emotional regulation, and develop resilience while forming meaningful connections with both the horses and one another.
The programs serve military veterans, first responders, caregivers, and others coping with trauma and life’s challenges. Structured activities with horses help participants develop practical coping skills, improve communication, and better manage stress in their daily lives.
“The need for these services continues to grow,” said Sciarrillo, who added, “Hope Arena gives us a safe, reliable space where participants can experience the healing power of connecting with horses throughout the year.”
In 2020, then Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul visited Pegasus praising the staff for their work. “They are changing people’s lives,” she said adding, “Those willing to sacrifice themselves for us – men and women changed by the experiences of war or first responders believing to have signed up for a certain role in society becoming life savers during a global pandemic. To come out into the country and breathe fresh air while being among people who are generous of spirit, along with animals that have the capacity to calm them down, is a powerful message.”
Comments