Bright Strides -

Healing Through Horses. Expression Through Art.

Bright Strides offers a unique blend of equine therapy and artistic expression. Join us in enhancing mental wellness through the powerful bond between horses and creativity.

Diverse Programs for Mental Wellness and Healing

Equine Therapy

Transformative sessions with trained horses.

Healing Arts

Creative expression for wellness and healing.

Riding Lessons

Empowering mental wellness as well as healing.

Uniquely Integrating Art and Equine Therapy

Holistic Approach

Our integrative model combines equine therapy, traditional art, and evidence-based psychotherapy for a comprehensive healing experience.

Inclusive Programs

We welcome everyone, including children, veterans, and individuals with special needs, ensuring that our services are accessible and beneficial.

Volunteer Engagement

Dedicated volunteers are the backbone of our programs, fostering community spirit and enhancing participant experiences through their contributions.

Artistic Expression

Our art projects encourage self-expression, allowing participants to explore their creativity while benefitting emotionally and mentally.

Physical Interaction

Riding and caring for horses contributes to physical health and strengthens social bonds, promoting a supportive and empathetic envirnoment.

Empowering Experience

Every interaction at Bright Strides is designed to empower individuals, encouraging growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

Discover Us

Located at The Grateful Pony Horse Farm, Bright Strides is dedicated to merging equine therapy with artistic practices. Our programs cater to diverse needs, promoting holistic healing for all ages and backgrounds.

Our Board & Team

Together, our board and team ensure every Bright Strides program prioritizes horse welfare, rescue initiatives, and therapeutic impact, while guiding the organization’s growth and global mission.

Danielle White

Co-Founder

Founder of the Grateful Pony Horse Farm in 2012, Danielle has been leading Bright Strides’ mission since its beginnings in 2017. Her vision and dedication to art equine therapy programs continue to inspire participants, partners, and farms worldwide.

Vanessa Laudette

Co-Founder

Lifelong horsewoman and philanthropist, Vanessa has over 30 years of riding experience and a deep passion for helping others. She met Danielle White as a child, and when Danielle was running her Art and Equine Therapy program, Vanessa helped transform it into a nonprofit. Their collaboration is the backbone of Bright Strides and its global network of therapeutic programs.

Melissa Duggan

Partner & Fundrainsing Team Lead

Melissa Duggan is a Massachusetts native with deep roots in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. A lifelong photographer and horsewoman, she has documented people, animals, and the natural world since childhood. She is the founder of WildIrish Farm in Massachusetts and Black Horse Farm Vermont, a therapeutic equine program in Westmore, Vermont, a partner of Bright Strides Art and Equine Therapy Nonprofit.

Sean Condon

Board Member

Sean started as a volunteer over a decade ago and quickly became a trusted board member. He brings long-term commitment, expertise, and strategic guidance to Bright Strides’ growth and programming.

What Our Participants Say

"Bright Strides has changed my life through the healing bond with horses and the creative art sessions I attend. I'm forever grateful!"

"The equine therapy helped me reconnect with my emotions. Art was a perfect complement in my journey to wellness."

"I love spending time at Bright Strides; the horses bring me peace, and the art classes help me express my feelings beautifully."

"Bright Strides has changed my life through the healing bond with horses and the creative art sessions I attend. I’m forever grateful!"