About Us
BRCTH provides life-enhancing, equine-assisted activities for individuals with disabling conditions, including those who are “at risk”, in the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and contingent counties in WV. We serve adults and children from age four. In order to provide these services to the community, we rely upon a dedicated team of volunteers. See our Volunteer page for more information.
BRCTH is located at Almeda Farm, 749 Salem Church Rd, Boyce, VA 22620 in Clarke County. The facility features large indoor and outdoor arenas, rolling pastureland, riding trails and a functional, well-appointed barn. Our herd consists of our pony, Honey, and two horses, Dillon and Dublin. We are currently looking for another horse to add to the herd. Contact us for more details and let us know if have any leads.
Our mailing address is BRCTH, P.O. Box 438, Boyce, VA 22620.
Executive Director and Instructor, Marjorie Youngs, M.Ed. has been involved in the therapeutic riding industry for more than 30 years. She has a Masters in Special Education, works as an Educational Diagnostician, and is a PATH-certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL). All of our instructors are certified through the Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH). The program is also served by Instructors Megan Donovan, who has been with us for 8 years, Laura Leaven, who taught for 5 years in Maryland before joining BRCTH three years ago, and Elizabeth “Scottie” Heffner, who recently joined our staff after instructing at another center for 3 years.
BRCTH is a center member of the Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship, Intl. (PATH – https://www.pathintl.org) which provides operating standards and professional certifications. We are also a member of the Therapeutic Riding Association of VA (TRAV – www.travinc.org), the Top of VA Regional Chamber, the Senior Interest Networking Group (SING), the Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB) and the Clarke County Community Service Council.
BRCTH funds its operations through individual and corporate in-kind and monetary donations, foundation and civic grants, fundraising events, merchandise sales and student tuition.
Donate to make an impact today!
BRCTH is served by a Board of Directors who bring their talents and dedication to the work of supporting and governing the organization.
Contact Us if you are interested in any of our programs or for more information.
Accessibility and Convenience
Our location is not only beautiful but also strategically placed for convenience. Just a short drive from major highways, it offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. Whether you’re coming from nearby towns or further afield, reaching us is hassle-free.
Scenic Surroundings
Nestled in the heart of Clarke County, our facility is surrounded by stunning landscapes that enhance the therapeutic experience. The natural beauty of the area complements our mission to provide life-enhancing activities.
Ideal for Therapeutic Activities
Our location is specifically chosen to support our therapeutic programs. The peaceful environment, combined with the convenience of nearby routes, makes it an ideal setting for both mounted and unmounted activities, fostering a sense of calm and focus.
