What Is Camelot's MISSION and purpose?

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities through programs of horsemanship and outdoor education that develop self-worth, independence and active participation in the community.

Camelot is a multifaceted program that requires tremendous courage and commitment from each student. When the student comes to Camelot, they have said to themselves, "I am ready to manage my own life, I am ready to join the mainstream."

The purpose of all our efforts, program and services at Camelot is to empower children and adults with disabilities to dream and to set goals. We teach this by example. Fulfilling Camelot's dream of acquiring our own land and facilities sends the message loud and clear - impossible things do happen!

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How Was Camelot Founded?

Camelot began in 1980 and was incorporated as a non-profit, charitable organization (501 c3) in 1983. Eileen Szychowski (pronounced Sha-huski) is the founder of Camelot, a horsemanship and outdoor education program for children and adults with physical disabilities. The program has served people in the greater Phoenix area for the past 22 years, offering curriculum that is educational, therapeutic and vocational, with emphasis on mainstreaming into the community. Camelot is the offspring of a similar program in California called The Dragon Slayers, founded and directed by Josef Rivers. Eileen, who is a disabled equestrian herself, trained there for seven years.

In 1998 Camelot completed its new and permanent facility, on 14.5 acres of land in north Scottsdale. The barrier-free barn is a prototype in that it provides physically challenged students with a safe environment that encourages independence. As far as we know, no other barn like it exists.

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Who Can Participate In Camelot's Program?

Camelot serves physically disabled, mentally alert persons who are seven years of age or older. Both children and adults participate in the program. If you are interested in becoming a student, please call us at (480) 515-1542, or email us.

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How Many People Do You Serve?

Instructors teach approximately 20 to 30 riders per week on an individual basis and the program serves several hundred persons annually through its riding program, field trips and disability awareness training programs. We also have a carriage driving alternative for those who are medically unable to ride on horseback, so they can have a comparable horse experience.

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How Much Does It Cost To Participate?

No fees are charged to those we serve, because we believe freedom and dignity cannot be assigned a dollar value. Rather, students are expected to pass on what they learn and experience by becoming contributing members of the community through volunteer efforts, school/work re-entry or by assisting other Camelot students.

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How is Camelot Financially Supported?

Camelot exists solely on donations. All funding comes from private donations, grants, corporate sponsorships, service clubs and benefits. There is no funding from government sources. All funds are retained locally and all donations are tax-deductible according to the IRS, under Section 501 c3. We appreciate any financial contribution, large or small. You can become a Champion of the Round Table, or if you'd rather, call us at (480) 515-1542 or email us.

Camelot opens their barn doors to the community every March to celebrate HOOVES & HEROES, our annual Not-So-Silent Auction & Raffle! There is always wonderful music, great food and fun for the whole family! For more information about this event, as well as other events that help support Camelot, please visit Camelot's Ranch News.