Riders at an equine facility with programs for those with diverse abilities will have a new, permanent home.
The North Fraser Therapeutic Riding Association, (NFTRA), will be moving into one of the barns on the historic Hampton property, at 128 Avenue and 210 Street, thanks to the property's new owners 鈥� who also own Honeybee Centre in Surrey.
There are 53 acres of land spanning from the south side of 128 Avenue where the historic yellow barns are located, and the north side of the road.
The riding association will be located in the barn furthest west on the south side of the road, and a temporary riding ring will be located right beside it.
Gay Conn, general manager of the riding association, is breathing a sigh of relief.
"The potential here for us to build a really beautiful facility is obvious when you look around here," she said.
NFTRA was founded in the early 1970s by Tilly Muller and a group of dedicated friends who recognized the transformative power of equine therapy.
What initially began in Tilly鈥檚 backyard with two donkeys grew into professional therapeutic equine program for children and adults who have physical, mental, emotional, and/or social challenges.
The movement of a horse helps riders exercise underused muscles, they improve their core strength, balance, and mobility, Conn explained. She noted the therapy also fosters social connection, builds self-confidence, and enhances emotional well-being.
"The simply joy of horseback riding instills a sense of freedom and empowerment in our riders. Each year, NFTRA serves approximately 200 riders, impacting thousands of individuals and their families," Conn said.
The search for a new home began in August of last year, when the 17-acre property the riding centre had leased for a decade was sold.
Owners of the Maple Ridge Equi-Sports Centre then stepped in with a temporary home, as the association could find no suitable leasing options in such a limited time.
It was during this transition, Conn explained, that they learned about the Hampton Farm being sold and they were curious about its future.
"That鈥檚 when we met Andrew Gluck and the Honeybee Centre, who expressed a keen interest in NFTRA鈥檚 mission. It quickly became evident that this community-minded family saw an opportunity to support our cause and help us to establish a lasting home," she said.
Gluck, one of four owners of the family-run business, said they acquired the Hampton property in February last year to expand their business.
His family immediately became involved in the community, he noted, and they went to city hall to introduce themselves. It was through that communication that they learned the riding centre was searching for a permanent location.
They researched the NFTRA and learned about the meaningful work of the association, its impact on the community, and its search for a location, and they were determined to help.
"Community involvement has always been a core value of our business鈥� We believe we can help them establish a welcoming and supportive environment for the long term, and we are excited to embark on this journey together," said Gluck.
Conn noted the association was able to secure a long-term lease, which was the group's number one concern in order to be able to invest in the property.
The association will start with one five-year lease, and then two 10-year renewable leases after that.
"And hopefully we will stay a whole lot longer than that," she smiled.
For now, Conn is hoping they will be able to move into their new home on July 1. Gluck is confident the facility will be ready by then.
During the next years, they are hoping to collaborate together and come up with a design for a new riding ring and barn with stalls.
"We really appreciate the opportunity that we've been given here. We're able now to realize a dream that we never, ever thought we'd be able to do," added Conn.
Once they get established at the new location, Conn is hoping they can expand their programming and offer different equine-assisted opportunities for people.
Currently there is a fundraiser underway to build an arena and paddocks at the new location.
The goal of the GoFundMe is $150,000. As of press deadline Tuesday afternoon, March 25, $500 had been raised with one donation from the fundraiser's organizer Dana Smithers.
"What once seemed unlikely is now becoming a reality," added Conn.
"Together, we are embarking on an exciting journey to build a new facility on this incredible property, ensuring that NFTRA can continue providing vital services for years to come."
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