Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center

04/01/2026

We want to see new and returning friends this season! All volunteers are encouraged to attend one of the training dates.

Can’t attend on a Saturday - drop a comment or send a message to let us know what day of the week works best for you. With enough interest we will add a weekday training date.

03/30/2026

This article was published in The Mane Event program. It’s worth repeating here for more to see.

As Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center steps into 2026, we embrace a year rich with symbolism, energy, and transformative potential. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, and more specifically, the Year of the Fire Horse—a rare and powerful combination that resonates deeply with Chakota’s mission of empowerment, growth, and connection through the healing presence of horses.

Horses possess the natural qualities of independence, enthusiasm, and spirited movement. For Chakota, whose riders and volunteers experience firsthand the transformative power of equine‑assisted activities, the symbolism could not be more fitting. The Horse in the Chinese zodiac is celebrated for its speed, passion, and free‑spirited nature. When paired with Fire, these traits become even more vibrant.

The Fire Horse year is known for ushering in fast-paced change and opportunities for growth. It encourages individuals to take decisive action, pursue long-term goals, and embrace new beginnings. For Chakota, this may be a year of expanding programs, strengthening community partnerships, and empowering even more riders.
Celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse offers a unique opportunity for Chakota to:

• Highlight the transformative impact of therapeutic riding

• Honor the horses who make this work possible

• Inspire the community to embrace courage, creativity, and forward momentum

• Launch new initiatives or events aligned with the year’s themes

As the world enters this vibrant new cycle, Chakota celebrates not only the horses who guide their mission but also the riders, volunteers, families, and supporters who embody the Fire Horse’s courage and heart. Together, they step into 2026 with purpose, creativity, and the confidence to gallop toward a bright and transformative future.

Chakota Therapeutic Riding Center was filed as an official not-for-profit on June 18, 2007. Thank you for being a part of that bright and transformative future that will lead us into our 20th anniversary celebration in 2027.

03/27/2026

Another story comes full circle.

In the Fall of 2021 Krista and her daughter Annika reached out looking for volunteer opportunities. They were side walkers and horse leaders during the 2022 season. Annika was also taking personal lessons from a riding coach at another barn.

In 2023 Annika had a medical event that caused her to fall from her horse. The horse was able to get back to the barn and lead help to Annika. This horse is credited with saving her life as she sustained a traumatic brain injury when she fell from the horse.

After several months in a coma and traditional rehab, Annika got back in her saddle. She needed assistance to mount the horse so a mounting deck was built for her. Through perseverance, determination, and hard work, Annika is able to mount from the ground.

Today her parents delivered her mounting deck to Chakota. It will be used by the cabin where riders often dismount and remount their horses while on a trail ride to feed the fish.

We are thrilled to know that Annika is back in the saddle. She is currently taking online classes and will soon be moving away to college to pursue a degree in equine science.

We wish Annika all the best for a bright future! We welcome her back any time!

03/23/2026

We were honored to partner with the New Baden Lions Club last weekend to help them raise funds for their charitable activities . They auctioned off a load of horse manure provided by Chakota’s horses. 😊

The high bidder had to arrange their own hauling while one of Chakota’s trusted volunteers and our reliable old tractor loaded their trailer.

It was such a popular item for the New Baden Lions Club, we decided to offer it Saturday at The Mane Event! This time, we have a volunteer who will load and deliver on his dump truck. If you’re getting that garden ready and need some fresh fertilizer, come prepared to bid!

03/22/2026

The weather was perfect for a Meet and Greet with two brothers who hope to be in the program soon. We need dedicated volunteers to make it possible to get them, and more, off the wait list.

03/21/2026

We are humbled by our Platinum Sponsor.

03/21/2026

Kelly Jo has been sharing stories from Chakota for many years. Thank you!

Chakota's ‘The Mane Event’ set for March 28
https://www.thebreesejournal.com/main-news/15434-chakotas-the-mane-event-set-for-march-28

03/21/2026

Let's celebrate our Gold Sponsors for The Mane Event by choosing their businesses and showing our heartfelt gratitude.

03/20/2026

***Updated*****

We appreciate our Silver Sponsors for The Mane Event.