Bricklin Dwyer, an economist covering the US and Canada with the BNP Paribas Fixed Income team, and his wife, Stefanie, were recently honored by the New York Yankees baseball team for founding Flying Manes, a non-profit organization.

Flying Manes is a therapeutic horseback riding program for children with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, based in the Bronx.

With Stefanie’s riding expertise and Bricklin’s past experience working for non-profits, the couple started Flying Manes in 2009. The program began with nine riders, and has since expanded to nearly 100 per year spread out over spring, summer, and fall sessions.

Flying Manes relies heavily on its volunteers. Each Saturday morning session has around 30 riders, each of which requires 3 reliable volunteers to guide each horses.

Although the organization keeps the Dwyers very busy, it’s clear that Bricklin would not have it any other way. He believes in the benefits of the program and finds great satisfaction in watching the progress of the program participants. “Riding is one of the best activities for strengthening your core muscles. Some riders have come to us slumped over in a wheelchair. After the riding lessons, they come away with both physical and mental benefits. They sit taller and gain confidence and poise.”

The organization was honored during the Yankees’ 2012 HOPE Week (watch the video!), an initiative that recognizes individuals and organizations performing acts of goodwill in their communities.