Founded in 2004 by legendary horseman Ellis “El‑Dog” Ferrell Jr., Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club (FSURC) carries forward over a century of Philadelphia’s Black cowboy tradition. Located in Strawberry Mansion, FSURC offers free horsemanship training to inner-city youth—teaching care, discipline, academic excellence, and responsibility in a safe, supportive environment.

Despite challenges like displacement due to gentrification, FSURC has expanded with new stables in East Fairmount Park, ensuring continuity of its mission. It fosters life-changing experiences through daily riding, stable maintenance, and community-centered events, all at no cost to participants. Supported by grants, volunteers, and fundraising, the organization remains a pillar…