A large fire destroyed two barns at the Frederick County 4H Therapeutic Riding Program in Thurmont, Maryland, in late August, causing a total loss of the barn, tack room, hay, feed, equipment, and specially made adaptive gear. Fortunately, no horses or people were injured, as volunteers were able to safely relocate the animals. Firefighters contained the blaze after several hours, but the cause remains under investigation.

The riding center, which provides therapeutic horse riding services, expressed shock but determination to recover, planning to continue operations from their feeding barn and indoor arena, which were spared. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with rebuilding and replacing lost resources, emphasizing their strong community support and commitment to overcoming this setback.