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Dear MTR Supporters,
As we move toward the end of a very productive first quarter at MTR, the sounds of construction have been music to our ears, signaling growth and renewal at MTR. Walking around the farm yesterday, I was reminded that Spring is truly a season of transformation. Bright pops of yellow, green, and purple are emerging at our entrance, daffodils are stretching toward the sun in front of the barn, and the pastures are beginning to glow with fresh shades of green. And, of course, the ultimate sign that Spring has arrived—horsehair clinging to every inch of clothing!
This Winter tested us with challenges of snow and an abundance of freezing temps, but our dedicated community pressed on with resilience and heart. We welcomed two new equine partners, Credit and Boe, into our herd, and we experienced our first Winter with the newly installed automatic waterers in our pastures—a game-changer in our daily care routines. Our Leadership Team recently gathered with the community for MTR’s 2025 Annual Meeting, celebrating our 2024 impact while unveiling ambitious goals for the year ahead. We were thrilled to give a first look at MTR’s exciting brand refresh, a reflection of our continued growth and commitment to excellence. In addition, thanks to the generosity of our incredible supporters, we are making much-needed improvements to our indoor arena, including a new vapor barrier and refreshed footing, ensuring a safer and more comfortable space for our participants and equine partners.
As you read through this newsletter, I hope you feel the same pride and gratitude I do in being part of this incredible community. Just like Spring breathes new life into the farm, your support allows MTR to continue growing, evolving, and delivering the healing power of horses to those who need it most. Thank you for being part of this journey with us—I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in the seasons ahead!
With gratitude and excitement,
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Kelly Rodgers
Executive Director
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We have embarked on an exciting brand refresh that more fully embodies the depth and impact of our work. Our new name speaks to the heart of what we do: harnessing the incredible power of horses to bring healing, growth, and connection to individuals of all abilities. This transformation is about more than just a new logo or colors—it’s about aligning our identity with the complete spectrum of equine-assisted services we provide, from adaptive riding, comprehensive therapies, mental health support, veteran programs, and more.
The refreshed brand reflects the natural beauty of our farm and our area, with colors inspired by the shifting seasons—the rich earth tones that ground us year-round. Just as our environment evolves, so too must our mission, vision, and values.
This update is a reaffirmation of who we are and who we strive to be for our community—a place of healing, hope, and transformation. While we look ahead to the future, we also honor our history by preserving the beloved symbol of the horse and heart (with a slight tweak, can you spot it?), a testament to the connection, compassion, and impact at the core of MTR. As we begin to unveil MTR - Horses That Heal, we invite you to celebrate this next chapter with us, knowing that our commitment to our participants, our horses, and our shared journey remains stronger than ever.
The name and logo are just the beginning.
Stay tuned for our new website design and a full launch celebration in early summer!
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Finding Purpose Through Horses: Betty’s Story
When Betty Shaffer first stepped onto the grounds of MTR on September 28, 2021, she felt an immediate connection. After retiring from her full-time job, she was looking for something meaningful, and she found it in the quiet strength of the horses and the welcoming community at MTR.
Betty’s love for horses started early. As a young girl, she rode a beautiful Welsh pony named Taffy, competing in gymkhanas and horse shows as part of the St. Margaret’s Pony Club. After high school, she even joined a college riding team, traveling to different schools and taking on the challenge of riding unfamiliar horses. Horses were always part of her story, even when life pulled her away from the barn.
For years, volunteering at MTR was a thought on the back burner. Betty’s husband was buried at the Veterans Cemetery down the road, and every time she passed by MTR, she wondered if they needed volunteers. But with a full-time job and multiple part-time commitments, it never seemed like the right time. That changed when retirement, and COVID, opened up a new chapter.
“It was so easy to get started,” Betty says. “Jessica was so enthusiastic, and I knew right away that this was where I was meant to be.” She began as a barn volunteer, finding comfort and purpose in the daily routines of grooming, tacking, and even mucking stalls. “It gives me a sense of accomplishment, and I feel like the horses appreciate it.”
Her role at MTR quickly grew. When a barn lead position opened, Betty agreed to take it on, so long as fellow volunteer Alan would share the responsibility with her. She also started taking riding lessons when opportunities arose, reconnecting with her younger self as she rode Rue, Fritz, Emma, Carter, Mr. Fluffy, and finally Pikaboo. Then when Pikaboo needed a Pony Partner, Betty stepped up without hesitation.
MTR has given Betty more than just time with horses, it’s given her a sense of belonging. “The staff is fantastic, and the other volunteers give me a sense of community. It’s a place where you feel needed,” she says. One of her most meaningful moments was as a side walker for Eddie, a participant who rode Splash. “Seeing how much joy Eddie had while riding, that was the best time ever.”
For Betty, being at MTR feels like coming home. “There’s a certain smell that horses have (not the manure!), but that sweet, earthy smell when you’re grooming them. When I catch that scent, I feel like I’m 12 years old again. It’s priceless.”
Betty’s journey at MTR is a testament to the healing power of horses and the strength of community. She’s found her place, and her purpose, among the horses and people who make MTR special.
If you would like to learn more about volunteering at MTR, please visit our volunteer page and submit an application. Volunteer Orientations take place several times a year.
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Welcome to MTR
Boe and Credit
We are excited to welcome two new potential equine partners to MTR! Boe is a 23-year-old Quarter Horse strawberry roan with a past in polocrosse and Pony Club. He comes to us as a free lease from Linda Harris.
Credit is a 22-year-old Quarter Horse bay with one of the more interesting past careers as a ranch versatility competitor. He comes to us as a free lease from Brad Rehmeyer.
Both boys are recent arrivals and have shown the sweetest manners and temperaments. They are beginning their trial period with unmounted and mounted work around the farm with staff and volunteers. This trial period is 90 days which will give us time to confirm their interest in doing this work. We are hopeful that they will both be a great fit for MTR and our participants!
After their trial periods, they will be eligible for Horse Champion sponsorships. Click below for more information.
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Thanks to YOU!
Your generosity in supporting our Valentine's Day FUNdraiser not only helped to add some love to our horses' stalls—it also added some much-needed funding to our Horse Purchase Fund. With your help, we were able
to add $1,820 to this fund.
Our herd members are the soul of the work that we are able to provide to our community. We are truly committed to ensuring that we bring herd members in that will fill the needs and requirements of our participants and our different programs.
Thank you to all that have contributed to this fund and to our fundraising campaigns.
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While the Break Weeks provided a well-earned rest for our herd, exciting improvements were underway in our indoor arena—made possible in part by The Herbert Bearman Foundation and the many supporters who contributed to our seasonal stall FUNdraisers.
A new vapor barrier was installed, improving both the aesthetics and functionality of the arena. This upgrade helps regulate wind and moisture, creating a more stable and comfortable environment for our participants and equine partners.
To further enhance the space, new footing was added, ensuring optimal support and comfort for our hardworking herd—the heart of our programs.
These much-needed upgrades make a significant difference in MTR’s most utilized space, directly benefiting those we serve.
Thank you to everyone who made this possible!
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Strengthening MTR
through Sponsorship
At MTR, our sponsors play a vital role in empowering our participants and ensuring the success of our mission. Through Annual Sponsorships and Event Sponsorships, businesses and individuals can make a lasting impact while gaining meaningful visibility in our community.
Annual Sponsors receive year-round recognition on our farm, at events, and across our website and social media—offering consistent exposure while demonstrating a steadfast commitment to healing through horses.
Meanwhile, Event Sponsorships provide a unique opportunity to support MTR while aligning with key moments in our calendar, like our signature Bourbon & Blossoms Spring Soirée on May 10th. This highly anticipated fundraising event brings together supporters for an evening of fun, philanthropy, and impact.
Your sponsorship fuels possibilities, strengthens our programs, and enhances the lives of those we serve. Join us in making a difference—
Become a sponsor today!
For more information, contact Lisa Zehring at lisa@mtrinc.org or (443)494-3015.
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Dr. Reams Awarded
PATH Intl. Region 2 Veterinarian of the Year!
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MTR nominated Dr. Reams of Southern Maryland Equine Veterinarian Services for PATH Intl. Region 2 Veterinarian of the Year to acknowledge her work with MTR and our herd.
Dr. Reams is an invaluable resource for MTR. Not only does she deliver exceptional care for our herd, she also goes above and beyond by generously sharing her knowledge with volunteers and participants. In 2024, she provided urgent care to several herd members, prioritizing their needs. She presented at our Life Skills Week and Barn University to teach our participants and volunteers about Equine Dentistry and Emergency Care.
Her veterinary care and attention is priceless to us, and her compassionate presentations effectively educate diverse audiences. We truly appreciate her profound impact on MTR's mission.
Congrats on your award, Dr. Reams!
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At our Annual Meeting on March 4th, we proudly unveiled MTR’s 2024 Impact Report, showcasing and sharing our incredible accomplishments of the past year. This report highlights the growth, success, and heart of our mission—made possible by our dedicated staff, volunteers, supporters, and herd members.
Together, we are changing lives through the power of horses.
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Help Make Our Auction a Success!
As we gear up for our Bourbon & Blossoms Spring Soirée, we’re curating an exciting auction to help us reach our fundraising goals—while offering guests unique and enticing items to bid on. You can play a vital role in making this auction a success!
Check out The MTR Event Wishlist on Amazon to see how you can contribute. Every donation helps us create incredible auction packages, generating crucial support for our programs and participants. Or see the graphic that follows of other items that would be greatly appreciated.
Your generosity makes a difference—thank you for being part of this special evening!
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Please contact Lisa Zehring at Lisa@mtrinc.org or (443)494-3015 if you have any questions about the event or if you would like to donate an item for our auctions. | |
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Barn University
At MTR, we're dedicated to strengthening the bond between individuals and our horses, fostering a deeper understanding of equine care. Barn University offers attendees a chance to learn directly from professionals in the equine industry.
3/14: Anatomy in Motion
4/11: Equine Nutrition
5/16: Saddle Fit for Multiple Disciplines
6/20: Equine Emergency and Toxicology
7/11: Lunging and Exercise for Horses in Equine-Assisted Services
8/1: Equine Behavioral Training
9/12: Basics in Equine Hoof Health
10/10: The Equine Partner in Equine- Assisted Services
Join us to learn directly from our staff, our guest experts, and our herd members. Elevate your horsemanship skills and prioritize the welfare of your equine partners.
For more information contact Linsey Erar, MTR Program Manager, at linsey@mtrinc.org or (443)494-3018.
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Yoga On The Farm
May–October
First Sunday of the Month
9:00–10:00 am
[Arrive 10–15 minutes early to set up and soak in the peaceful surroundings.]
Stick around afterward for a tour of the farm and Meet and Bleat with the goats.🐐
Yoga is for *everyone* and can be done while seated or standing. All abilities are welcome! Bring your own mat and anything you need to be comfortable—props, blanket, chair, etc.
Classes are led by certified yoga instructors from Crofton Yoga & Wellness who are generously lending their time & expertise to benefit our community.
Donations to MTR are appreciated!
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Summer Celebration Week is a fun-filled week packed with riding and horse-related activities your kiddos will love!
Ages: 7–14
Dates: July 14–18
Time: 9 am–2 pm
Daily Activities Include:
- Riding Lessons: Group trail rides and mounted games
- Themed Sessions: Explore dressage, western games, horse health, care, behavior, and equipment
- Horsemanship Skills: Grooming, tacking, bathing, and leading
- Creative Fun: Horse-themed crafts, games, and demonstrations
*Only 2 Spaces Available*
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Adult Equestrian Skills Week is for adults with disabilities who would like a week of riding and horsemanship practice in a safe and collaborative environment.
We are proud that MTR participants feel that they are at home at MTR, so this opportunity will be thrilling!
Daily Activities Include:
- Daily riding and horsemanship lessons
- Hands-on learning about horse care related to health, training, and nutrition
- Games and activities
*Session is Sold Out*
*Calling all volunteers who would like to support the activities, riding, and games!
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Life Skills Week is for adults with disabilities who are seeking opportunities to put their knowledge of horses toward a group project that will be shared with the community. This is a chance to gain life skills in organization, communication, and public speaking in a supportive environment where everyone can contribute!
Daily Activities Include:
- Daily, unmounted, hands-on learning about horse care related to health, training, and nutrition
- Learn from guest speakers
- Play horse-themed games and activities
- Plan for and participate in a group project with support from MTR staff and volunteers
*Session is Sold Out*
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