Riding Into Inclusivity: Youth Programs and Therapeutic Horsemanship at C and C Training Stables

There is something extraordinary about the way a horse interacts with people. Horses don’t judge, they don’t ask for credentials, and they don’t distinguish between age, ability, or background. They simply respond to the energy, care, and trust shown by their riders and handlers. At C and C Training Stables in Ridgecrest, this truth forms the foundation of a remarkable philosophy: riding isn’t just for a select few—it’s for everyone.

For decades, Candee Coffee has dedicated her life to creating a stable where youth programs and therapeutic horsemanship open doors to riders who might not otherwise have the chance. In doing so, she has transformed C and C into a place of inclusion, growth, and healing.

Opening the Arena to Young Riders

For many Ridgecrest children, their first experience with horses begins at C and C. Candee’s approach with young riders emphasizes not only technical skill but also personal development.

First Lessons: Children often begin with the basics—leading a horse, grooming, learning safety around the barn. These first steps instill responsibility and a sense of achievement before they ever set foot in the stirrups.
Building Confidence: Once in the saddle, young riders quickly discover that every small milestone—whether it’s trotting for the first time or guiding a horse through a simple pattern—brings immense confidence.
Character Development: Candee teaches kids that being a rider also means being a caretaker. They learn to clean stalls, fill water buckets, and brush their horses. These tasks, though simple, create strong values of discipline and empathy.

Parents often remark that their children emerge from lessons at C and C taller, prouder, and more confident—not just as riders, but as individuals.

The Power of Teen Involvement

Beyond beginner lessons, C and C offers teenagers an invaluable opportunity to deepen their skills and sense of responsibility. Many teens become working students, helping Candee care for horses and mentor younger riders.

This model benefits everyone:

Teens gain leadership skills, learning how to instruct and encourage others.
Younger children look up to older riders, creating a positive cycle of mentorship.
The stable thrives as teens contribute to daily operations, strengthening the sense of teamwork.

In a world where young people often face pressure from screens, school, and social expectations, the barn provides a refreshing environment grounded in purpose, fresh air, and meaningful connection.

Therapeutic Horsemanship: Healing Through Horses

One of the most impactful aspects of C and C Training Stables is its support for therapeutic riding programs. Partnering with groups such as THOR Therapeutic Horsemanship of Ridgecrest, Candee ensures the barn is a safe and welcoming place for riders with unique challenges.

Why therapeutic horsemanship works:

Physical Benefits: The rhythmic motion of a horse’s walk mimics human gait, providing riders with improved balance, posture, and coordination.
Emotional Benefits: Horses offer a calming presence. Riders often experience reduced anxiety, greater self-esteem, and increased trust in themselves and others.
Social Benefits: Being part of a barn community fosters connection, friendship, and a sense of belonging that many riders deeply need.

These programs demonstrate the universal truth that horses meet people where they are, creating breakthroughs that traditional therapies sometimes cannot achieve.

Stories of Transformation

The impact of C and C’s inclusive programs can be seen in the stories of its riders. While names are often kept private out of respect, the themes are powerful:

A child on the autism spectrum who once struggled to engage socially finds joy and confidence while guiding a horse around the arena.
A veteran recovering from trauma reconnects with trust and self-worth in the quiet companionship of grooming and riding.
A teenager once shy and withdrawn blossoms into a leader, helping younger riders learn how to tack up.

These moments may not make headlines, but they make a world of difference to the families and individuals involved.

Why Inclusivity Matters in Horsemanship

Horsemanship has traditionally been seen as an activity requiring significant resources, often limited to those with the means to afford horses, equipment, and training. C and C Training Stables challenges that narrative by emphasizing accessibility and community involvement.

Lessons are offered to a wide range of participants, with patience and compassion leading the way.
The stables collaborate with nonprofits to ensure those who benefit most from therapeutic horsemanship can access it.
Volunteer opportunities make the barn accessible even to those who may not ride, allowing them to be part of the horse community.

This inclusive approach ensures that the joy of horses belongs to everyone, not just a privileged few.

Voices of Parents and Riders

The testimonials from families highlight the significance of these programs:

“My son has struggled with confidence for years, but something about riding at C and C changed him. He smiles now when he talks about his lessons.”
“Candee has a gift for connecting with kids of all abilities. She meets them where they are and helps them feel like they can succeed.”
“Our family never imagined horseback riding could be an option for our daughter, but the therapeutic program opened a whole new world for her.”

These voices underscore the real impact of Candee’s vision for inclusivity.

The Role of Horses in Teaching Life Lessons

Every rider at C and C learns that horses are more than animals—they are teachers in their own right. They teach:

Patience, because progress comes slowly and steadily.
Trust, because a horse responds best when its rider is calm and consistent.
Resilience, because falls or mistakes are not failures but opportunities to try again.

For children and adults alike, these lessons go far beyond the barn. They become tools for navigating school, work, relationships, and personal challenges.

The Future of Youth and Therapeutic Programs at C and C

Candee’s long-term vision includes expanding these programs even further. She sees opportunities to:

Develop more structured youth mentorship, where experienced teens take on leadership roles.
Increase partnerships with local schools and organizations to introduce more children to the barn.
Grow therapeutic offerings, ensuring that individuals in Ridgecrest who need equine-assisted therapy can access it regardless of financial means.

The barn’s inclusive philosophy positions it as a cornerstone of Ridgecrest’s commitment to youth and wellness.

Why Ridgecrest is Stronger Because of C and C

For Ridgecrest, C and C Training Stables is more than an equestrian facility—it is a beacon of inclusivity. By opening its gates to children, teens, adults, and individuals with special needs, it provides:

A positive outlet for youth.
A supportive environment for families.
A resource for therapeutic growth and healing.

In doing so, C and C strengthen the social fabric of Ridgecrest, proving that small-town stables can make a big impact.

Riding Toward a Brighter, More Inclusive Future

At C and C Training Stables, every rider matters. From the youngest child mounting up for the first time to the veteran seeking healing through horses, the barn is a place where everyone is welcome.

Candee Coffee’s vision of inclusivity has created not only a thriving training program but a powerful force for good in the community. Her work reminds us that horses are not just for sport or recreation—they are partners in growth, healing, and connection.

In Ridgecrest, the future of horsemanship is bright, not because it’s exclusive, but because it’s open to all. And that’s what makes C and C Training Stables a true community treasure.

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