The James S. Brady Therapeutic Riding Program for the disabled was named in honor of James Brady, former Press secretary to the President of the United States. James Brady was shot in 1980, in the attempted assassination of President Reagan . His recovery program demanded intensive physical therapy, part of which (his favorite part) was riding his horse, Bernie.

Melba Meakin, who met him in 1987, recalls how important and holistic a form of exercise he considered riding to be - " Mr. Brady felt that riding Bernie gave him an emotional lift and a sense of independence."

In 1987, James Brady gave permission to use his name in a program helping disabled Bay Area youngsters to gain strength, courage and self-esteem through the care and riding of horses.

Brady students enter the program on the recommendation of their doctors and physical or other therapists, and work with N.A.H.R.A certified instructors and trained volunteers to reach individually set goals - increased flexibility, better balance, posture or sometimes the aim is to improve communication skills and stretch the attention span .

Whatever the intention, the instructors work closely with the student's other coaches, therapists and family members, to create a complimentary therapy that feels more like fun.

The Brady Program is run in part, on funds from Tal-y-Tara, Melba and her husband Hugh Meakin's Tack shop, and contributions. Tal-y-Tara also coordinates major events like 'Polo in the Park', to subsidize the program.

It is important to the Program that classes be as affordable as possible, since those who need it most, very often cannot afford therapy - a difficult task without generous benefactors.