Causes: Animal Husbandry, Animal Protection & Welfare, Animal Services, Animals, Equestrian, Food, Sports

Mission: Our mission is to provide quality, life-long care for equines who are unwanted/neglected and/or have special needs and to promote the horse-human bond through the development and implementation of innovative educational and outreach programs utilizing our resident equines and provide opportunities for people who might not otherwise have the chance to experience horses in a supportive, educational environment.

Results: As a new nonprofit, we are still in our developing phase. However, we have provided a permanent home to a total of 18 special needs horses and ponies, with average lifespans of 30+ years. We have helped over 200 children in the past 2 years get the opportunity to learn about horses and their care and to get involved in our programs. We have partnered with a local at risk elementary school to develop a unique literacy program for struggling students and we have partnered with several other local groups to provide services and opportunity for our community. We also partner with our equine community to provide assistance to horses and ponies in need, provide owner education and referral and assist groups getting equines out of the slaughter pipeline and into safe haven.

Target demographics: special needs horses and at risk youth

Direct beneficiaries per year: 50 horses, 2 schools, 7 at risk youth groups, 5 community groups and approximately 75 members of our community.

Geographic areas served: Maryland

Programs: permanent sanctuary to horses and ponies with special medical and behavioral needs, education and outreach programs to the community which target low income, at risk, a special needs youth and adults to connect them with horses in a way that promotes mutual healing and emotional/social growth with an emphasis on creating opportunities to develop lifelong skills and appreciation for animals.