Kelly Chaplin

Former Staff Member

When Kelly first arrived at Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center as a college intern in the summer of 1995, she was a young student from the East Coast eager to explore both a new place and a new passion. Studying therapeutic horsemanship and equine business management, she wanted to see how she could use her knowledge and experience to make a difference in people’s lives. Eventually she found Little Bit, a discovery that would influence not only her career, but her entire life.

Kelly’s journey with horses began in Vermont, where she grew up, across from a dairy farm that was later turned into a horse barn. From an early age, she spent hours riding, teaching, and caring for horses. Those experiences built her understanding of patience, empathy, and connection. In high school, she joined the cross-country running team and was deeply moved by its spirit of inclusion. Her team welcomed athletes of all abilities, and she saw firsthand how shared effort and encouragement could bring people together. That sense of community and respect for difference stayed with her, guiding her toward a career that combined movement, therapy, and compassion.

When Kelly first stepped into Little Bit, she immediately felt the energy and care that filled the place. The center was unlike any she had seen before. At a time when many programs were small or informal, Little Bit stood out for its professionalism, its structure, and its warmth. The horses were well-trained, the staff highly skilled, and the riders treated with dignity and joy. Kelly realized almost immediately that she had found a place where she could grow and belong.

What began as a summer internship quickly became much more. After graduating from college, Kelly returned to Little Bit as a certified instructor and began what would become a long and formative chapter of her life. Over the years, she advanced from part-time instructor to program director, helping to shape lessons, mentor volunteers, and guide riders through both challenges and triumphs. She also earned her advanced instructor certification, an achievement she still views as one of her proudest moments.

Kelly’s time at Little Bit was filled with moments that reminded her why the work mattered. She remembers watching nervous or uncertain riders find confidence and joy as they learned to communicate with their horses. Each small success, from a first trot to a steady independent ride, showed her the power of patience, trust, and connection.

One of her most meaningful experiences was training a young horse named Zorro. She met him when he had newly arrived at the center and helped guide him through his first lessons as a therapy horse. Watching him grow into a gentle, steady partner for riders became a symbol of the growth she experienced in herself.

Equally important were the relationships she built with the people around her. The staff, volunteers, and riders became her second family. Together they celebrated achievements, supported one another through setbacks, and created a space where everyone felt included. During her years at Little Bit, Kelly also met her future wife, who shared her passion for the program and the people it served.

Looking back, Kelly sees her time at Little Bit as one of the most influential periods of her life. It taught her the importance of compassion, leadership, and resilience. It also showed her that healing and growth happen not only in the riders but in everyone who becomes part of the community.

As Little Bit celebrates its 50th anniversary, Kelly reflects with pride and gratitude. The center continues to change lives, just as it changed hers. For her, Little Bit will always be more than a place of work. It is where she grew up, found love, and discovered her calling.

Find more 50th anniversary stories HERE.