PTC Give & Equine Studies of San Diego a 501 (c) organization.
PTC Gives is about second chances — for horses, and for the people who step up to help them heal. Our mission is to rescue and rehabilitate horses in need, provide hands-on education and training to both children and adults, and give underserved families the chance to experience the ranch lifestyle. When you become a sponsor, you’re not just writing a check — you’re invited to be part of the work. Sponsors have the unique opportunity to be actively involved in the care, rehab, and training of these horses, gaining firsthand experience and connection. You’ll also receive recognition, access to special events, and the deep satisfaction of knowing your support is changing lives — for horses and humans alike.
Equine Studies of San Diego is More Than Just Riding
We try to do more than teaching for a test. We try to give kids tools they can use in life. We combine equestrian activities together with S.T.E.M. challenges to help children build confidence, emotional strength, and have a better chance at careers many of these students might not have even known existed.
The Equine Science Program isn’t just another after care /lesson program but an effort to give kids something more – opportunity, confidence, connection. Based in Poway, CA, and deeply rooted in the local community, we mix science, agriculture, and horsemanship in a way that’s both practical and inspiring.
We offer after-school care, and lessons with the purpose to take kids away from a desk – they’ll be up, moving, trying things out, and learning as they go. With a mix of school support and hands-on experiences, we help them figure out what they’re good at and start building real skills for the future.
One of the standout parts? We, at San Diego Trail Company, have a special partnership with the PTC Give. A portion of every sale goes straight to support the program, turning everyday purchases into real impact.
Equine Studies of San Diego at San Diego Trail Company
We don’t give grades, we don’t track some random stats that translate to just pieces of paper. No, we have a different view about results, both when it comes to numbers and to stories. We have set a clear system in place to track how kids are doing, what’s working, and where things can improve. It’s about real progress, not just box-checking. At San Diego Trail Company, measure mostly:
What does PTC Give at San Diego Trail Company look like day-to-day?
At the heart of it all is the Poway Equestrian Center: part classroom, part barn, part playground for learning. It’s where kids get out of their heads and into the world, blending book knowledge with hands-on experience on:
- Equine anatomy and behavior
- Safety in horse handling
- Sustainable agriculture
- Trail riding industry insights
- Horse training and sales preparation
In the afternoons kids have fun and learn at the same time. Every day comes with a different activity – feeding or brushing the horses, riding or jumping into real-world lessons: learning about animal care, nutrition, or biology by actually doing it. It’s not just about memorizing facts. It’s about learning to take responsibility, work as a team, and keep going even when something feels tough.
And because school still matters, we’ve built in homework help and tutoring. That way, kids can keep up with classwork while spending time outdoors, learning in a way that feels different (and honestly, more fun) than a typical school day.
Character and leadership: Core values developed through horsemanship with PTC Give
The benefits extend well beyond academics. Here’s how the program of PTC Give shapes well-rounded individuals:
- Safe judgment: Students gain awareness of safety protocols through real-world practice.
- Accountability: Caring for animals and equipment fosters responsibility and discipline.
- Thinking for themselves: Every day brings chances for kids to ask questions, figure things out, and tackle problems in their own way.
- Setting and reaching goals: Whether it’s learning to ride, brushing up on horse anatomy, or just getting more comfortable around the animals, kids set personal goals and grow at their own pace.
- Confidence that sticks: When a child connects with a horse or masters a new skill, you can see the boost.
- Learning to work with others: Caring for horses, and spending time with other kids, teaches patience, clear communication, and respect for everyone involved.
Every part of theEquine Studies program is built to help kids grow. Not just in school, but in life. We’re talking about confidence, communication, and emotional strength; not just test scores.
A Program With Real Reach
What’s happening here goes beyond just helping individual kids. The Equine Science Program of PTC Give is creating real, lasting change in the community – starting in Poway and spreading across San Diego County.
In Poway alone, nearly a quarter of the population is under 19 with about 8% of them living below the poverty line. When kids grow up in such circumstances, they can greatly benefit from a structured afterschool program like ours to learn how to change their life in the future and actually get the tools to do so.
And here’s something special: over 40% of households in Poway identify as horse lovers. That’s a built-in passion we’re tapping into. By connecting that local love of horses with real learning and purpose, we’re turning a hobby into a powerful educational tool.
But the program isn’t just for kids. Adults are getting involved too; whether they’re looking to learn something new, connect with others, or find programs they trust for their families. It’s becoming something everyone in the community can be part of.
PTC Give at San Diego Trail Company
Who are we for?
Our program is all-inclusive. Kids ages 5-17. Whether they’re from busy households or underserved communities, all kids benefit from structured time that mixes learning with hands-on skills. This program gives them both.
Youth who need extra support
There are too many kids living in poverty across San Diego County. This program is built to reach them, offering guidance, learning, and stability where it’s needed most.
Horse and farm lovers
Already into riding or agriculture? This is a chance to dig deeper, learn more, and connect with people who share that passion.
Working parents
For families juggling jobs and school schedules, it’s not always easy to find afterschool care that feels safe and meaningful. We are here to fill that gap and offer you a peace of mind at the same time.
Breaking it down this way helps make sure the program really fits the people it’s meant for – from pricing to what’s being taught. With flexible schedules, scholarship options, and teaching that works for all kinds of learners, it stays open, inclusive, and truly makes a difference.
A curriculum that builds futures
Beyond its afterschool structure, the Equine Science Program of PTC Give introduces an expansive course catalog. These classes are not just about horses; they’re about cultivating life skills, scientific understanding, and career readiness.
Just some of our opportunities include:
- Intro to Equine Science
- Large Animal Anatomy
- Equine Nutrition and Reproduction
- Functional Anatomy and Physiology
- Equine Business and Law
- Therapeutic Riding Techniques
- Equine Massage and Alternative Therapies
This program isn’t just for kids but for anyone who’s curious and open to learning. Maybe a kid wants to be a vet someday, or just try something totally new. Maybe a parent wants to spend time with their child or reconnect with animals.Maybe an avid rider who wants to continue on the path of knowledge. Whatever brings someone here, there’s room for all ages to learn, grow, and be part of something meaningful.
More than just another program
The Equine Science Program at San Diego Trail Company isn’t just about teaching; it’s about changing lives. Our goal is to help kids grow and build real-life skills. We also try to give them hope, not only today, but for the future, too. For a child who’s never been around horses – or maybe never had a safe place to grow – just being near one can spark something big: curiosity, confidence, even the courage to dream about the future.
As the program continues to grow, our mission at the San Diego Trail Company stays the same – we want to give all kids the opportunities they deserve. With horses, science, and a community that truly shows up, PTC Give is helping young people find their footing – one ride, one lesson, one breakthrough at a time.
Stronger together: Sponsorships that make a difference
What really makes the PTC Give work isn’t just what happens on-site; it’s the partnerships an sponsorship behind it.
