For me, happiness is Centaur Stride. It’s the sound of hooves in rhythm with the heartbeat of joy. It’s the sparkle in a rider’s eyes, the quiet bond between human and horse, and the laughter shared between volunteers and staff. It’s that unmistakable glow of purpose — and it’s contagious.

Just look at the photo. That smile? It belongs to a participant in our newest initiative: Volunteer Transitions. This pilot program, funded by the Westfield Fund, offers individuals with disabilities the chance to volunteer at the barn in an inclusive, supervised environment. It’s not just about giving — it’s about belonging. About being part of something bigger. About feeling joy simply by showing up and being accepted.

And here’s the beautiful part: this program is entirely free.

Who’s experiencing more happiness — the participant or the staff? Honestly, it’s hard to say. That’s the magic of Centaur Stride: joy flows in every direction.

Anthony, with assistance, feeding a treat to Beau.

Our riding lessons and programs are offered at less than half the cost to provide them. Yet we continue to open our gates wider — more accessible, more inclusive, more impactful — thanks to the generosity of donors who believe in our mission. Your support makes this possible.

But let’s take a step back.

Happiness isn’t just a fleeting emotion — it’s a high state of energy. It’s not limited to the mind; it pulses through the body, influences our health, and radiates into the world around us. Everything in the universe operates on energy, and when you are aligned with your purpose, when you love what you do, you generate the kind of energy that transforms lives — including your own.

That’s what Centaur Stride has always been about. Even before I fully understood it, my soul was reaching toward a purpose — toward a spiritual path that was adventurous, fulfilling, and deeply rooted in service. What began as a simple idea evolved into a grassroots movement, shaped by friends, mentors, and visionaries who believed we could make a difference. And we did.

The old saying goes, “Bloom where you’re planted.” We did just that. We used what we had. We built it. And they came.

So how do you maintain this high-energy, fulfilling environment in today’s world–especially within nonprofit work?

In January 2025, I attended a mini-conference hosted by The Capacity Lab, an initiative that supports nonprofit organizations in Chautauqua County. The theme was “Optimize, Align, and Thrive.” The keynote speaker, Dr. James Lemoine, presented a talk titled “How to Motivate the Unmotivated.” Though targeted at workplace performance, his insights extended far beyond employment–they were lessons in creating meaningful, joyful lives.

His opening question startled the room: “What percentage of Americans dislike their jobs?”

The answer: 82%.

That’s staggering — and deeply concerning. Especially in nonprofits, where pay is modest, training is costly, and retention can be a constant battle. His message focused on three drivers of motivation:

1. Expectancy – Do people believe in themselves? Are they mentored and empowered to take responsibility?

2. Instrumentality – Does their effort make a difference? Are they rewarded or acknowledged?

3. Valence – Do they value the reward, whether it’s material, emotional, or spiritual?

As I sat there, absorbing every word, a powerful realization washed over me: We already have this at Centaur Stride.

Our staff love their work. Sure, I may challenge them with policies and procedures (I’ll admit it!), but the culture here is rooted in mutual respect, flexibility, and above all, shared passion. They are cross-trained, adaptable, and receive direct affirmation from our riders and their families. The smiles, the gratitude, the progress — it fuels us. Sometimes there are tears, too. Tears of joy. Of pride. Of healing.

There are no extravagant bonuses or benefits here–but the reward? It’s priceless. It’s the feeling you get when a child who’s never spoken suddenly speaks. When a teen with anxiety finds calm in a saddle. When a parent whispers, “This is the one place my child feels safe.”

You can’t buy that feeling. But you can help us protect it.

In a time when youth suicide rates are rising — especially in rural areas — and education feels threatened by rapid technological change, we ask ourselves: How do we keep our communities energized, resilient, and hopeful?

One answer is simple: nature and horses.

They heal. They ground us. They bring us back to ourselves.

That’s why Centaur Stride continues to evolve and grow. We now accept Independent Health Wellness Program participants. Family Empowerment helps fund lessons for children with disabilities. Schools can apply for Co-Ser reimbursement. And our volunteer opportunities, including those for individuals with disabilities, remain free–at least while funding lasts.

Our lessons are still just $35.

So, what are you waiting for?

Find your joy. Reconnect with your energy.

And if you’re looking for happiness — it’s already here.

For more information, visit: linktr.ee/centaurstride