ManeGait, a nonprofit based in McKinney, has secured the full $13.2 million required for The Beacon Project. This capital campaign, which took three years to complete, will fund an expansion designed to double the organization's current capacity. The additional space is intended to serve more families in North Texas who are currently waiting for equine-assisted therapy services.
The organization currently provides therapy to 150 children, adults, and veterans weekly. However, more than 400 individuals with disabilities remain on the waitlist. Referrals from parents, teachers, and doctors have driven this demand, which outgrew the existing facilities. In response, ManeGait broke ground on the new project in 2024.
Patricia Nelson, the organization's president and CEO, stated that the expansion was a necessity rather than just a choice. She noted that reaching the fundraising goal in three years demonstrated the importance of the project to the region. The construction will add a 32-stall horse barn, a second covered arena, and a new administrative building.
This building will house the GaitWay to the Brain therapy center, an equestrian simulator, and a growing mental health program. Plans also include a multi-use event area and a 75-seat conference space.
The GaitWay to the Brain program, which combines brain-building exercises with equine therapy, was developed at the McKinney center. ManeGait reports that the program has since been replicated at riding centers across the United States and Canada. While the expansion is expected to double the number of people served, the organization has not stated that it will eliminate the existing waitlist.
