About Us
We believe in the power of connection — with ourselves, each other, and the horses that inspire us. Rooted in our core values of Community, Relationships, Empowerment, and Well-being, we create a space where every individual feels seen, valued, and supported on their journey toward growth.
Our Mission
The purpose is to empower urban youth by creating transformative equestrian experiences that inspire growth, foster belonging, and cultivate resilience.
Our Vision
We envision a world where urban youth thrive through transformative equestrian experiences. At The CREW, we foster an inclusive community that celebrates diversity, breaks barriers, and inspires confidence, resilience, and purpose—both in and beyond the barn.
Our Values
The core tenets of Community, Relationship, Empowerment, and Well-being guide our values. We believe in the power of a supportive, inclusive community where every individual is valued and connected. Through meaningful relationships, we create a space where trust, respect, and collaboration flourish, empowering each member to reach their fullest potential. We are committed to fostering well-being by nurturing personal growth, emotional resilience, and holistic development, ensuring that every participant feels cared for and inspired to thrive. Together, we cultivate a culture of growth, belonging, and strength.
Our Story
In 2021, The CREW was founded to prioritize Black youth, as we recognized a desire to create non-traditional outlets that primarily satisfied the mental and emotional regulatory support that was, and continues to be, necessary. We soon realized that this was intriguing for the community we aimed to serve. As the mentees and their families discovered and embraced the equestrian lifestyle, The CREW Urban Youth Equestrians was officially thriving.
Through the power of community, compassionate mentorship, and the unique bond between humans and horses, we sought to provide an inclusive space where every individual can discover their potential, build meaningful connections, and thrive.
Racial barriers exist within the equine industry. The CREW continues developing programming and events that address these systemic gaps to gradually dismantle the barriers, providing our youth a permanent 'place in the stable.'
Reflections in the Saddle
-
I appreciate and value the opportunity for reciprocal learning to take place, sometimes I teach, sometimes the mentee teaches.
CREW Mentor
-
The word, Phenomenology, comes to mind. I get to make meaning in my interactions with the horses.
CREW Co-Founder
-
The CREW works hard, allows friendships, and does whatever they can to keep the horses safe.
CREW Mentee
