EQUINE-ASSISTED
Featured State News

Raleigh Partners with CORRAL to Launch Equine-Assisted Learning Program for Teen Girls

Phyllis Coley @phyllis_coley

Free, guided sessions use equine-assisted learning to build confidence, empathy, and emotional strength

EQUINE-ASSISTED
A young participant enjoys a peaceful moment with her horse at CORRAL Riding Academy, where connection and care are central to every session.

RALEIGH, NC—The City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with CORRAL Riding Academy to launch a powerful new program designed to support youth development through hands-on interaction with horses. The Equine-Assisted Learning Program offers teen girls a unique, nontraditional way to build confidence, emotional intelligence, and social skills while learning to connect with and care for horses.

What Is the Equine-Assisted Learning Program?

The program includes four guided sessions led by trained professionals at CORRAL, a nonprofit organization based in Cary. CORRAL is widely recognized for its equine therapy work with girls in high-risk situations and now expands its reach with this inclusive program open to teens across Raleigh.

  • Runs twice a year
  • Free to City of Raleigh Parks & Rec participants
  • Led by licensed therapists and equine specialists
  • Focus on building resilience, trust, and communication skills

An Inclusive, Hands-On Approach

Moments of trust and healing: CORRAL’s equine-assisted programs help youth build emotional resilience and self-confidence through deep bonds with horses.

CORRAL and the City of Raleigh created this partnership with accessibility in mind—specifically targeting youth who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in equine programs.

“This program allows young girls to build critical life skills in a calm, supportive setting—outside of the classroom or clinic,” organizers shared. “It’s about learning who you are by learning how to connect with another living being.”

About CORRAL Riding Academy

Founded in 2008, CORRAL Riding Academy is a faith-motivated nonprofit that provides long-term support and holistic care for adolescent girls in crisis. Through equine-assisted psychotherapy, academic tutoring, and mentorship, CORRAL helps young people gain tools for lifelong success.

Learn more at corralriding.org.

How to Get Involved

Interested teens and families can connect through Raleigh Parks & Recreation to enroll in the next session. For more information, visit raleighnc.gov or contact the department directly.

Photos courtesy of CORRAL Riding Academy