Ellis Ferrell is living the dream.

From a young age, he loved horses and has long wanted to own one.

In 2004, he founded the Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club and now owns 14 horses, writes Tamala Edwards for 6abc.

The club, which operates in Strawberry Mansion, has a single mission in mind.

“Give the kids something to do,” said Ferrell. “We’ll teach them how to ride.”

Ferrell, alongside his son Darrin, teaches kids how to ride after school and on the weekends.

The club is free to join.

For many of the kids, it’s their first time on a horse.

In addition to learning how to ride them, the kids also learn how to care for the horses, including feeding them, cleaning stalls, and grooming.

The club has been great at teaching the kids life skills through mentoring, and in turn, keeps them off the street. 

“I’m trying to teach them discipline,” said Darrin.

The love of horses has been passed down generations, all the way down to Ellis’ great grandson, Aazim.

Since it was founded in 2004, Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club has transformed this section of the neighborhood and served as a safe haven for many.

Learn more about how a local horse riding club has transformed lives in 6abc.

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