A former school teacher’s passion for horses has ignited a remarkable initiative that is changing lives one hoofbeat at a time in Michigan’s largest urban area.
Recognizing the profound impact these majestic creatures had on his journey, David Silver founded Detroit Horse Power, a program dedicated to providing children without access to horses with a unique avenue for growth, learning, and empowerment. It aims to create pathways for those who might never have imagined a future in the equestrian world.
“They can use these life lessons to find greater success on their life’s journey,” Silver said.
The Wayne County Farm Bureau (WCFB) has sponsored the program since 2017 and remains a dedicated benefactor of Detroit Horse Power today due to the tangible results it delivers.
WCFB President Carl Graham praised the program’s ability to instill confidence in Detroit-area youth participants—especially among shy students—saying the outcomes are undeniable.
Right now, youth participants can access this hands-on learning experience through the program at various equine farms and centers across the state—like the The Renaissance Equestrian Center, a 20-horse facility in Saline, Michigan, which serves as a place of initiation for many students as they take their first horseback trot.
So far, Detroit Horse Power has impacted about 500 students through the program. However, the narrative continues to change as the program focuses on growth. They are currently in the process of constructing an 14-acre urban equestrian center, which should be completed in 2025. The move promises to amplify the organization’s impact five-fold.
