Dara Triplett, Program Director, and Christy Van Cleve, Volunteer Coordinator, are both PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding Instructors at Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy, united by decades of friendship, faith, and a shared love for horses. Their story began more than 30 years ago and quickly grew into a bond that shaped both their personal lives and professional calling. In April 1994, they experienced motherhood together, even expecting their first children on the same day. From an early float trip down the Current River, where they jokingly say they became “joined at the hip”, their friendship flowed naturally. They discovered a shared passion for horses, purchasing them together and planting a dream of one day working side by side in a barn. That dream became reality in 2014 when Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy opened. What began as a lifelong friendship and shared passion blossomed into a calling, allowing them to serve, heal, and grow through the horses they love. They credit adaptability, grace, and faith as keys to their successful partnership. Barn life is unpredictable - weather, horses, and people’s needs change daily. By stepping in for each other, extending grace, and keeping prayer, purpose, and gratitude at the center, they navigate challenges together. Their strengths complement one another perfectly. Dara is fearless and adventurous, while Christy brings steadiness and caution that keeps everyone safe. They show up for both the best and hardest moments, laugh together, and bring out the best in each other. Their shared goal is to continue Cassidy’s Cause’s legacy by helping others through horses, serving with purpose, and making lasting memories riding the trails together. DaraTRIPLETT ChristyVAN CLEVE & Program Director & Volunteer Coordinator, PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding Instructors at Cassidy’s Cause Therapeutic Riding Academy SUPPORT BUSINESSES THAT MAKE OUR MISSION POSSIBLE INTHEVUE.COM | FEBRUARY 2026 21
