Pegasus Riding Academy

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic horseback riding programs and equine-assisted services for children and adults with disabilities, diagnoses, and those in at-risk populations. As a PATH International (Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship) Premier Accredited Center, we strive to improve the quality of life for our program participants and their families.

Our Mission

At Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy, we focus on partnering with our equine staff to promote independence while targeting physical and emotional well-being for individuals with disabilities, diagnoses, and those in at-risk populations. We provide therapeutic Equine Assisted Services, mounted and unmounted, emphasizing ability and maintaining a respectful and trusting environment for our participants, volunteers, staff, and equines.

Our Vision

Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy strives to set a lasting standard of excellence in the Philadelphia area in therapeutic Equine Assisted Services, changing lives through innovative and inclusive programs. We aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for our participants to grow and thrive, while also promoting the well-being of our equine partners.

Our History

Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy was founded in 1982 by Carol and Rich Tatum, combining a love of horses with a strong desire to help the disabled community. Under Carol's leadership, Pegasus grew from a small program serving only 15 mildly disabled children per week to a year-round, full-time program serving over 100 children and adults with various disabilities. Although Carol is no longer with us today, she lives on in our hearts and we honor her memory by continuing her legacy.

Our Staff

At Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy, we are proud to have a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who share our passion for serving others. Our staff is comprised of:

• Teresa Doherty, Executive Director, holding dual degrees in equine science and psychology from Rocky Mountain College, Teresa has expanded and implemented many new programs and initiatives for Pegasus TRA.
• Kevin Lewis, Operations Director, who has been with Pegasus for nearly a decade, Kevin has co-authored the Pegasus Equine Strategic Plan and is pursuing his PATH CTRI certification.
• Ryan Frech, Equine Director & Summer Program Director, a former Pegasus volunteer of the year and a recent graduate of Delaware Valley University, Ryan brings a strong equine background to our team.

Our Programs

At Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy, we offer a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs of our participants. Our programs include:

• Weekly Lessons, providing individualized instruction for riders with a range of abilities and needs.
• Summer Programs, offering a 6-week summer session for children and adults with disabilities.
• Autism Program, a specialized program designed to meet the needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.
• 4-H at Pegasus, a partnership with 4-H, providing educational horsemanship lessons and life skills education for children and young adults.
• Pony Parties, hosting birthday parties and special events for riders and their friends.
• Therapeutic Riding, providing lessons tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each rider.

Our Facilities

Located on Fairmount Park Property, our indoor and outdoor facilities offer a unique and unique environment for our riders. Our facility is designed to provide a safe and accessible space for riders of all abilities, with indoor and outdoor areas available year-round.