https://coloradooutdoorsmag.com/2025/09/23/oegp-finding-freedom-in-the-saddle/
Finding Freedom in the Saddle
Bits of Freedom Featured by Colorado Outdoors Magazine & CPW’s Outdoor Equity Grant Program
“Airplane! Airplane! Out to the side,” Shelly Even calls out to the group.
Esme’s arms waver, then slowly float up to shoulder height. Her arms stretch fully, fingers curling into soft fists as she rhythmically bobs with the walking gait of her horse, Taxi. For the six-year-old wearing a purple helmet and sandy brown hair around her eyes, this requires tremendous strength. A small smile breaks across her face. She holds the airplane pose for another dozen strides, then drops her arms and steadies herself again on the reins.
Taxi continues his gentle rhythm, hooves kicking up tiny puffs of dust beneath him. The morning sun breaks through thin clouds over Pueblo, Colorado, as Shelly leads an equine-assisted therapeutic riding session for children. This is a typical morning at Bits of Freedom, where Shelly serves as Executive Director.
Bits of Freedom provides equine-assisted therapeutic riding for children, teens, and adults with physical or developmental special needs in southern Colorado. Riders travel from across the region—even as far as Holly, Colorado near the Kansas border—to experience the healing power of horses.
Riding sessions take place several days a week, and over 175 children participate each year. These programs are supported in part by Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Outdoor Equity Grant Program (OEGP), which increases outdoor access for underserved youth statewide.
Inside a dusty arena framed by shade trees and views of the Wet Mountains, therapeutic riding becomes a gateway to nature. Riders experience sunshine, fresh air, sensory engagement, and the rhythmic movement of the horse beneath them.
Esme demonstrates the “half-way around the world” position as a handler leads Taxi in a quiet circle. This movement strengthens her core, improves motor planning, and boosts her confidence. Next, she rides independently—no lead rope, no assistance. She nudges Taxi into a trot and passes Shelly, who beams and gives her a high-five.
After her ride, Esme wraps her arms around her father Josias’s leg.
“It’s been really good for her,” Josias says. “Her core strength, even her verbal skills… it’s helped so much. She loves the horses, and she’s grown in confidence.”
Esme’s sister rides as well, and the benefits ripple throughout their entire family.
“Not every community has this,” Josias adds. “It’s a big deal. I would encourage anybody to get out here and get signed up.”
Nearby, Shelly helps another rider mount Taxi, adjusting the reins and offering calm reassurance. Her straw hat shades blond hair, her boots dusted with arena dirt. She moves with the confidence and kindness of someone who lives this work with her whole heart.
Martha Nogare, President of the Bits of Freedom Board of Directors, stands nearby watching Shelly.
“The growth she’s brought forward in six years is incredible,” Martha says. “This is her heart.”
Growth is visible everywhere:
A new wheelchair-accessible mounting ramp
Adaptive tack such as larger looped reins
Expanded programming and staff
Four major community events each year
Over 150 riding sessions annually
The Outdoor Equity Grant has been instrumental in supporting staffing, volunteer training, horse care, transportation, equipment, and administrative needs.
For Shelly, receiving the grant was deeply meaningful.
“I felt like I won the lottery,” Shelly says. “It changed everything. It opened a door we needed at the perfect time.”
Although funding has helped grow the organization, Shelly’s dedication remains untouched.
“It’s one of those things that pays you at your heart,” she says. “If I didn’t get a paycheck, I’d still do it. My heart and my horses’ heart—we love these kids.”
Horse Terminology
Equine: A horse, mule, or donkey
Tack: Riding gear including saddle and reins
Headstall: Leather piece that holds the bit and fits over the horse’s head
Reins: Straps the rider uses to guide the horse
Thoroughbred: A tall, athletic horse breed often used for riding
Read the Original Article
You can view the full Colorado Outdoors Magazine feature here:
https://coloradooutdoorsmag.com/2025/09/23/oegp-finding-freedom-in-the-saddle/
