BCTRA Vision: We envision a community of support where all British Columbians can partner with horses to reach their ultimate potential.
BCTRA VALUES: Respect. Integrity. Trust. Professionalism.
In 1986 the BC Therapeutic Riding Association was formed for groups who wanted to provide horseback riding as therapy for people with disabilities. Today, more than ever, we realize the powerful impact that partnering with horses can have and their ability to change the lives of anyone with special needs. Therapeutic riding, equine-based therapeutic services, and para-equestrian development are the pillars of our association as we strive to educate, support, and network with groups and individuals across the province.
Our Team
Our team consists of a BOARD OF DIRECTORS, two part time staff (VIRTUAL ADMIN & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR), and we have MEMBERS from across all of British Columbia, CANADA. We encourage all those offering equine assisted services & programming to join our provincial organization so that we can serve everyone’s needs across the province. If you are working in Equine Assisted Services and would like to be learn more about BCTRA and expand your network please contact us>>
Board of Directors & Committees
We are always looking for Committee Members and Board Members. Let’s chat – drop us a note on the contact page:
Board of Directors 2024/2025
We have a Board Position opening – would you like to join us??
View Board Nomination Form >>
Ashley Sudds, Director
Karen Tanchak, Treasurer/Secretary
Lisa Mander, Director
Mike Waters, Director
Sharolyn Wandzura, Chair
Simone Bourassa, Director
PT Communications & Marketing Coordinator: Kelly Lee Parry
PT Virtual Admin: Sharolyn Wandzura
BCTRA TOP FIVE STRATEGIC GOALS
Developed October 2024
BCTRA GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
- To promote and foster the use of the horse for therapy, sport and recreation for people with disabilities in British Columbia.
- To encourage regional co-operative development and communications.
- To provide a framework for those interested in the promotion, research and development of the therapeutic horse related activities.
- To promote and plan workshops and other educational programs on a continuing basis.
BCTRA CONSTITUTION
The purposes of the Society are:
1. To promote partnering with the horse to provide therapeutic riding and equine based therapeutic services that support the health and well-being of people with disabilities and special needs including physical, mental and emotional challenges.
2. To support the self-sufficiency, program development and capacity building efforts of therapeutic riding centers in the province of British Columbia.
3. To support the development of instructors, coaches and practitioners seeking accreditation through provincial, national and international associations.
4. To provide support for individuals participating in therapeutic, recreational, and competitive settings.
5. To endorse and support standards of safety from provincial, national and international associations that partner with the horse in a therapeutic environment.
6. To encourage the growth of new modalities, organizations, and individuals working within horse-related therapeutic activities.
7. To encourage regional development and communication throughout the province to raise awareness, conduct research, and build networks.
BCTRA holds membership in CanTRA (The Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association), HCBC (Horse Council of British Columbia), ISES (International Society for Equitation Science).