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Saddle Pals

UCP > Programs & Services > Saddle Pals

Volunteer with Saddle Pals

Upcoming Saddle Pals Volunteer Training

Saddle Up! Are you interested in helping others live a life without limits? Enjoy being outdoors? Love horses? This is the job for you! No previous horse experience is required! 

Training Dates:
Session 1: Friday, August 7, 2026: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Session 2: Saturday, August 8, 2026: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Training Format: Classroom + hands-on barn/arena practice

IMPORTANT: Volunteers must complete BOTH Session 1 & 2 to complete the training series and be eligible to volunteer for Saddle Pals.

RSVP today to Cameron (cmoore@ucpsacto.org). It is first-come, first-served. Maximum capacity of 10.  

UCP's Equine Therapy Program Makes A Return

UCP Saddle Pals provides weekly adapted horsemanship lessons to people with disabilities, age 4 and up. This  program promotes growth, independence, and improved quality of life for program participants. Horseback riding is more than just fun- it can help improve coordination, balance, and posture. Additionally, our participants develop better self awareness and self esteem through interacting with our horses and PATH-certified instructors.

 

Ways to Get Involved

Saddle Up! Sign Up to Participate!

Saddle Pals is open to UCP and non-UCP participants. For questions about the program or to get on the waitlist, email rec@ucpsacto.org

Saddle Pals Rates:
 
Assessment Rate (required prior to starting lessons): $250

Individual lesson (30 minutes): $90.00
Individual lesson (45 minutes): $120.00

Group non-riding activity**: $50.00
 

NEW! Semi-Private Riding Lesson: $65 per person 

A semi-private horseback riding lesson consists of 2 to 4 riders in a class. These group lessons are designed to promote socialization and develop meaningful friendships through the sport of horseback riding. Riders may play games or perform tasks, such as “Musical Horses” or “Red Light, Green Light”, that encourage communication and teamwork all while working on their individual riding goals.

Monthly Rates:
Individual lesson (30 minutes/1 per week): $360.00
Individual lesson (45 minutes/1 per week):  $480.00
Group non-riding activity**: $200.00

**Non-riding activities could include grooming, feeding and animal care, education and learning, tack and equipment support, socialization activities, familiarity and confidence building activities, ground-based balance, and mobility work, etc.

Become a Sponsor & Support Our Riders!

Naming Opportunities – $10,000 – $25,000 
– Covered Arena 
– Saddle Pals Rest Area 
– Shed 

Scholarships – $5,000 for 10 Students

Sensory Trail – $2,500 (limit 5)

General Donations 

Download the full list of sponsorship opportunities. 

For more information call Megan Laurie, Director of Development at 916-283-8312 or email mlaurie@ucpsacto.org. 

Volunteer at UCP's Saddle Pals Program

Saddle Pals relies on volunteers! If you are interested in helping other live life without limits, enjoy being outdoors, and horses. This is the job for you. 

Join us for a volunteer orientation to learn more. Our team will be in touch soon to schedule a virtual information session. 

 Learn more and register today.

Meet the Saddle Pals Horses!

Carmel Sky, a.k.a Sky

A 21-year-old Palomino Tennessee Walker. She is full of character and is looking forward to helping child and adults. 

Cody

A 30-year-old Paint Quarter Gelding. He comes to UCP with experience as a lesson horse along with being an experienced therapy advisor. 

Nationally Accredited Program

Nationally accredited by PATH International, UCP Saddle Pals promotes growth, independence, and improved quality of life for riders with developmental disabilities, helping them:

  • Develop a bond with UCP’s therapy horses
  • Learn responsibilities associated with riding a horse and animal care
  • Expand their knowledge and skills in a fun, supportive environment
Learn more about PATH

After just one year of riding, Carlianne could walk without falling and climb onto her horse.

Read Carlianne’s story

Questions?

To learn more about Saddle Pals, contact our Recreation Team
Support Saddle Pals!

Donate today!