We have established a barn environment that promotes diversity and inclusiveness, providing a haven where teenagers can flourish without external pressures.
Recognizing the significance of extracurricular activities in nurturing personal growth and essential life skills like discipline, teamwork, and self-confidence, we are dedicated to offering opportunities in horsemanship to those who may not have had access otherwise.
We introduce teens to the joy of horsemanship, develop their riding skills, and instill, important values, such as discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. We teach them horse care, grooming, horseback riding, and the sport of polo. The aim is to create scholar-athletes who may potentially go to college to play polo, or who will have the ability to travel the world working for polo teams.
Your donation plays a significant role in empowering our youth to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. We ensure that 100% of your contribution goes directly towards supporting our programs and maximizing the impact of participating in equestrian sports.
Great Strides provides numerous volunteer opportunities for dedicated equestrians who want to engage with our programs and share their passion for supporting youth. These opportunities allow volunteers to connect with our organization and make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.
With your sponsorship, Great Strides can offer a range of programs at no cost, which helps secure a promising future for our talented young individuals. They can pursue higher education to play Polo or gain opportunities to work for polo teams worldwide.
Donations, sponsorships, and volunteering are integral to our work in supporting under-resourced teens and helping them experience the transformative power of horses and equestrian sports.
Our partnership with Free Ride Equestrian is more than just a collaboration – it’s a commitment to nurturing our riders’ aspirations. By equipping them with the finest breeches available, we are giving them the confidence to pursue their equestrian dreams with unwavering determination.
We are proud to have Free Ride Equestrian as a partner who shares our vision of empowering riders to reach new heights.
Unbridling Potential. Harnessing Education. Empowering Youth.
Saddle Up Scholars provides educational services to young riders in existing equestrian outreach programs. Our mission is to make a direct and immediate impact in the lives of young horse enthusiasts from underserved backgrounds by harnessing the skills they gain from horses and channeling that into academic success.
Great Strides is a 501(c)(3) charity that offers a safe and nurturing environment where teens can embark on a transformative journey alongside magnificent horses.
Led by Laurie Scott, an equestrian with 44 years of experience at the highest levels of riding and instructing, Great Strides is working in collaboration with professional polo player and instructor Mario Dino of the Saratoga Polo School and the Boys and Girls Club of the Capital Area to deliver this program.
Check out our feature Story by CBS6 Albany!
Through polo, we help teens improve their health and wellness while developing confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills.
Great Strides partners with the Boys and Girls Club of the Capital Region and the Saratoga Polo School to create a comprehensive and enriching experience for our participants. Together, we ensure that each child receives the highest quality instruction and guidance.
We are committed to making our programs accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic background. Through community support and fundraising efforts, we provide fully subsidized opportunities for those who do not have the means to participate in horse sports otherwise.
We aim to empower our participants to reach further than they ever thought possible: to play polo in college and travel the world working with horses.
Fill out the form below to get more information on all the ways to support Great Strides Equestrian Foundation.
On behalf of the Great Strides Equestrian Foundation and the teens we serve, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for considering our cause. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter future, one stride at a time.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
