On August 31, a fire at Silverado Farm in Frederick County, Maryland, destroyed the barn and tack room housing essential equipment for the Frederick County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Program. Fortunately, no horses or people were harmed, but the loss of facilities and gear was total. Established in 1983, the program provides therapeutic horseback riding to residents with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities, helping improve their physical abilities and emotional well-being. Before the fire, the program had grown to serve 65 riders with 18 horses and ponies.

In the wake of the fire, the community rallied with overwhelming support, including donations exceeding $29,000 on GoFundMe, a $10,000 gift from Central Maryland International Trucking, and fundraising events. Volunteers have been working tirelessly to rebuild, clear space for a new barn, and inventory donated equipment, with hopes to resume riding sessions by spring. The program’s founders and volunteers remain deeply grateful for the community’s generosity, which has been crucial in sustaining and rebuilding this vital therapeutic resource.