07/24/2025
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Patricia Kelly is a Vietnam veteran and American cowgirl who created the nationally the recognized nonprofit Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. (EHI). “Ms. Pat” utilizes the scenic nature of Keney Park to introduce the healing power of horses to children and families in Hartford. Since creating EHI in 1984, she has helped hundreds of people engage in equine-assisted therapy, offering opportunities to underserved youth.
Originally, EHI only catered to women, but while riding through Keney Park, a young boy asked Ms. Pat, “Is that a real horse?” prompting her to expand the impact of her work. More than 40 years later, EHI is still considered the only Black-owned and operated organization in the U.S. offering equestrian-related therapy. The nonprofit pairs clients with licensed therapists and horse specialists to treat an array of mental health issues. They also offer an Equestrian Summer Day Camp for children and teens aged 5-17.
“It’s important for our children to have the same resources and opportunities as any other child,” says Ms. Pat. “ It’s not about race; it’s about the importance of stabilizing a community. Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. Equestrian and Therapeutic Center, Keney Park and Hartford are now places of history and destination.”
Ms. Pat was among 10 people recognized at the CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute event in 2014. She was also inducted into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in 2015, and has appeared on popular reality shows, sharing the amazing work of Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. Equestrian and Therapeutic Center.
