Help Us Carry GAIT Through Winter
Our horses give so much. Now we're asking our community to help us give back to them.
For decades, GAIT’s herd has been sustained through the generosity of our community, the proceeds of longstanding fundraising traditions, and the extraordinary dedication of people like the late Dr. R. A. Dubensky, husband of GAIT’s founder, Martha Dubensky. His gift of veterinary care at no cost to GAIT helped keep our horses healthy while allowing precious resources to support our mission.
Today, the financial landscape looks very different. Rising costs, the loss of donated veterinary services, and the loss of fundraising events that once provided vital support have left GAIT carrying expenses that were previously offset by the generosity of others.
While fundraising traditions may move on, the horses and the responsibility to care for them remain right here.
We’re asking our community to help carry forward the legacy of compassion and commitment that built GAIT, ensuring these remarkable horses continue to receive the care, comfort, and security they deserve.
Every gift helps us care for the herd and protect the place they call home.
Our Mission
GAIT’s mission is to improve the quality of life for children and adults with special needs through therapeutic horsemanship and equine-assisted activities. We provide a safe, nurturing environment where horses and humans connect to foster healing, strength, and independence.
As a Premier Accredited Center by PATH Intl. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International), our programs meet the highest standards of safety and excellence. Read our 2026 reaccreditation press release.
Transformative Equine Programs
Adaptive Riding (Therapeutic Riding)
Individualized riding instruction led by certified professionals, supporting riding skills, balance, coordination, confidence, and independence.
Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy
Horse-centered experiences guided by a licensed mental health professional and equine specialist, supporting self-awareness and emotional growth.
Veterans Fellowship
A free, seasonal gathering where veterans connect with horses and one another through guided activities and fellowship.
Occupational Therapy
Individualized OT sessions that may include activities on horseback or on the ground, based on each participant’s goals.
Equine Assisted Learning
Ground-based activities that help participants practice communication, leadership, emotional awareness, and teamwork.
Professional Training & Student Learning
GAIT hosts PATH Intl. ESMHL workshops and skills tests for equine-assisted services professionals. College interns have also completed capstone projects at GAIT in mental health and occupational therapy.
Sponsor a GAIT Herd Member
Your sponsorship helps provide the feed, veterinary care, and daily care that keep GAIT’s therapy herd healthy.
Meet Our Gentle Herd
Breeze — “Breeze of Lexlin”
Breeze joined GAIT in 2017 through LexLin’s Gypsy Gift contest, where GAIT earned second place. A trusted “go-to” horse, she brings a calm, welcoming presence to Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, and Veterans Fellowship.
Joey — “My Cuppa Joe”
Joined GAIT in 2018. Joey has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Veterans Fellowship, and Occupational Therapy sessions.
Laddie — “Kings Boy Laddie”
Joined GAIT in 2021. Laddie has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship.
Aaizik
An 18-year-old registered Arabian, Aaizik joined the herd in October 2026. As he settles in, the team is getting to know his curious “stargazing” habit and helping him find his place at GAIT.
Slam — “Slam of Hanover,” aka “Sandman”
Joined GAIT in August 2013. Slam has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship.
RJ — “My Rocky Joe”
RJ has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship. His arrival date needs to be confirmed.
Misty — “Mystified”
Joined GAIT in fall 2024. Misty has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship.
Tonka
Joined GAIT in fall 2024. Tonka has supported Adaptive Riding, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship.
Montana — “Ebony’s Mountain Pride”
Now retired from riding, Montana takes part in ground-based Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship activities. His arrival date needs to be confirmed.
Bear — “Gneisti”
Joined GAIT in fall 2016. Now retired from riding, Bear continues in ground-based Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, and Veterans Fellowship activities.