MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
The Shane Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities through innovative equestrian activities.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.


Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
Within the past year, The Shane Center served 38 individuals who collectively spent 837 hours in the arena. This is a 13% increase in the time spent in the arena over 2022! The center removed and replaced all the footing in the indoor and outdoor arena, making it safer and ergonomically friendly for our equines and our volunteers/staff. The center added the use of Savvy Feeders as outdoor feeding stations to keep the hay out of the mud and off the dirt. In addition to being a healthier way to feed our equine partners, it also saves staff time and minimizes hay waste. The center hosted a 30 year celebration event which drew in over 100 people!
     
     For the past THIRTY-ONE YEARS, The Shane Center has been improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through innovative equestrian activities! As the first program of its kind in the central Ohio area, we are often imitated but never duplicated. Some things that make The Shane Center unique include:
     ●The Shane Center is one of only two therapeutic programs in the area that is a PATH Premier Accredited Center*.
     ●The foundation of our highly effective and thorough programs is the natural horsemanship philosophy that is used to provide a common language for staff, volunteers, students, and horses to create positive and respectful partnerships.
     ●The Shane Center uses a holistic approach to programming; not only teaching participants to ride, but the horsemanship skills necessary to work safely and effectively around horses.
     ●Our class sizes are small, and we are careful to limit outside distractions during the lessons. Nestled in scenic Knox County, we are blessed with fresh air, quiet surroundings, and a peaceful environment.
     ●Our lessons run a full hour. This is longer than most other centers, but we do it so that our participants can devote the beginning of each lesson to grooming, natural horsemanship groundwork, and assisting in preparing the horses for riding.
     ●Each lesson is tailored to meet the needs of the individual students with specific objectives.
     ●The Shane Center is the only program that provides on-going therapeutic riding activities to participants. If we can safely meet their needs, and participants are interested in advancing their skills, we will serve them in consecutive 8-week sessions. Two of our current participants have been riding with us for all thirty years!
     ●We provide on-going staff training for our certified professional therapeutic riding instructors as well as our volunteers. The relationships we build with staff, students, and horses are critical to our success and the longevity of those relationships is testimony to the quality of the services we deliver.
     ●The Shane Center strives for and achieves excellence in both rider experience and the care of their equine partners. Four of our 8 active lesson horses have been part of the program for more than 10 years! It is rare in our industry for lesson horses to stay in service for more than a few years before retiring, rehoming, or reselling.
     
     Our strategic plan for 2021-2025 is reviewed quarterly by our board of directors. It includes the following main points that the organization is actively working on.
     1. PROGRAMMING: Strengthen existing programs, discover community needs, and develop new programs.
     Objectives include: Strengthen & Expand Current Programs by maintaining our PATH Premier Accreditation. Increase outreach to the entire greater Columbus area by recruiting participants for programs, with the goal to identify specific programming geared towards underserved groups. Develop New Programming by cultivating 1 new program every 2 years.
     2.PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT: Investing in our people to enable growth and enrichment of The Shane Center. Objectives include: Expand the internship program with the goal of having 1-2 interns per year to help with programs and fundraising. Recruit volunteers with the goal of recruiting 10% more volunteers annually.
     3. MARKETING: Improve and grow the overall marketing plan. Increase Social Media Presence with the goal to grow public awareness about the unique offerings, volunteer, and donor opportunities at The Shane Center.
     4. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: Enhance financial capacities and increase philanthropic support. Fundraising: Focus on our main fundraising event which is the annual golf Scramble held in September of each year. Develop a spring fundraising event which is a craft market held in April. Donors/Donor Relations: The goal is to increase the amount raised by the annual fund drive by 10% annually AND to increase the number of donors by 10% annually, and increase the number of corporate sponsors by 5% annually. Another goal is to increase donor recognition to ensure that our donors feel appreciated so they keep giving, invite others to give, and take pride/ownership in the center as a valued service in the community. We want to encourage our donors to become more involved as volunteers and board members. Our grant writing goal is to increase grant funding by 10% each year for general operations and by 10% each year for new programs or outreach events.
     Some of the strategic plan areas that have been completed include:
     Board Development: Our goal is to have 7-9 Board Members with diverse skill sets, demographics, diversity, ages, and industries. Staff Development: our goal is to have a strong staff to carry out the strategic plan with clear responsibilities, and roles. An important part of this goal is to also ensure we are compensating our staff fairly.



Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:

Within the past year, The Shane Center served 38 individuals who collectively spent 837 hours in the arena. This is a 13% increase in the time spent in the arena over 2022! The center removed and replaced all the footing in the indoor and outdoor arena, making it safer and ergonomically friendly for our equines and our volunteers/staff. The center added the use of Savvy Feeders as outdoor feeding stations to keep the hay out of the mud and off the dirt. In addition to being a healthier way to feed our equine partners, it also saves staff time and minimizes hay waste. The center hosted a 30 year celebration event which drew in over 100 people!
     
     For the past THIRTY-ONE YEARS, The Shane Center has been improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through innovative equestrian activities! As the first program of its kind in the central Ohio area, we are often imitated but never duplicated. Some things that make The Shane Center unique include:
     ●The Shane Center is one of only two therapeutic programs in the area that is a PATH Premier Accredited Center*.
     ●The foundation of our highly effective and thorough programs is the natural horsemanship philosophy that is used to provide a common language for staff, volunteers, students, and horses to create positive and respectful partnerships.
     ●The Shane Center uses a holistic approach to programming; not only teaching participants to ride, but the horsemanship skills necessary to work safely and effectively around horses.
     ●Our class sizes are small, and we are careful to limit outside distractions during the lessons. Nestled in scenic Knox County, we are blessed with fresh air, quiet surroundings, and a peaceful environment.
     ●Our lessons run a full hour. This is longer than most other centers, but we do it so that our participants can devote the beginning of each lesson to grooming, natural horsemanship groundwork, and assisting in preparing the horses for riding.
     ●Each lesson is tailored to meet the needs of the individual students with specific objectives.
     ●The Shane Center is the only program that provides on-going therapeutic riding activities to participants. If we can safely meet their needs, and participants are interested in advancing their skills, we will serve them in consecutive 8-week sessions. Two of our current participants have been riding with us for all thirty years!
     ●We provide on-going staff training for our certified professional therapeutic riding instructors as well as our volunteers. The relationships we build with staff, students, and horses are critical to our success and the longevity of those relationships is testimony to the quality of the services we deliver.
     ●The Shane Center strives for and achieves excellence in both rider experience and the care of their equine partners. Four of our 8 active lesson horses have been part of the program for more than 10 years! It is rare in our industry for lesson horses to stay in service for more than a few years before retiring, rehoming, or reselling.
     
     Our strategic plan for 2021-2025 is reviewed quarterly by our board of directors. It includes the following main points that the organization is actively working on.
     1. PROGRAMMING: Strengthen existing programs, discover community needs, and develop new programs.
     Objectives include: Strengthen & Expand Current Programs by maintaining our PATH Premier Accreditation. Increase outreach to the entire greater Columbus area by recruiting participants for programs, with the goal to identify specific programming geared towards underserved groups. Develop New Programming by cultivating 1 new program every 2 years.
     2.PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT: Investing in our people to enable growth and enrichment of The Shane Center. Objectives include: Expand the internship program with the goal of having 1-2 interns per year to help with programs and fundraising. Recruit volunteers with the goal of recruiting 10% more volunteers annually.
     3. MARKETING: Improve and grow the overall marketing plan. Increase Social Media Presence with the goal to grow public awareness about the unique offerings, volunteer, and donor opportunities at The Shane Center.
     4. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: Enhance financial capacities and increase philanthropic support. Fundraising: Focus on our main fundraising event which is the annual golf Scramble held in September of each year. Develop a spring fundraising event which is a craft market held in April. Donors/Donor Relations: The goal is to increase the amount raised by the annual fund drive by 10% annually AND to increase the number of donors by 10% annually, and increase the number of corporate sponsors by 5% annually. Another goal is to increase donor recognition to ensure that our donors feel appreciated so they keep giving, invite others to give, and take pride/ownership in the center as a valued service in the community. We want to encourage our donors to become more involved as volunteers and board members. Our grant writing goal is to increase grant funding by 10% each year for general operations and by 10% each year for new programs or outreach events.
     Some of the strategic plan areas that have been completed include:
     Board Development: Our goal is to have 7-9 Board Members with diverse skill sets, demographics, diversity, ages, and industries. Staff Development: our goal is to have a strong staff to carry out the strategic plan with clear responsibilities, and roles. An important part of this goal is to also ensure we are compensating our staff fairly.


Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic Mounted Services
    Therapeutic Unmounted Services

5: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Willow Farm

     1. Amanda Woods

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Willow Farm

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Amanda is a CTRI (Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor) and began her journey with us in September of 2021. She is currently a double major in Equine Business Management and Business Administration and Management with a minor in Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies at Otterbein University. She loves to train and compete in dressage, especially with her new horse, Fancy. When not playing with horses or other fluffy friends, she loves to read books and fiddle around on her violin. She is very excited to be part of the Shane Center staff!

     2. Emily Kinzer

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Willow Farm

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Emily Kinzer, CTRI and Shane Center Fundraising Coordinator, has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Otterbein University in Equine Business Management with concentration in Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies. She competed on Otterbein’s hunt seat equestrian team during her time at Otterbein and enjoys training and competing in jumpers with her horse Marlin. Emily interned with the Shane Center in 2019 and has done a little bit of everything from horse care, lesson aide, and is now our newest professional Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor!

     3. Karen Sanchez

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Willow Farm

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Founder and Executive Director, Karen has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) CTRI (Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and an ATRI (Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor), as well as an official PATH Instructor Mentor. She is an accomplished horsewoman, served as an equestrian judge during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, graduated at the “A” Level of the United States Pony Club, spent 10 years participating in 4-H, and served 5 years as the organizational advisor to the Savvy Riders 4-H Club of Licking County. She is studying Level 5 of the Parelli Savvy System and has studied with numerous top horseman including Ray Hunt, Walter Zettel, Jimmy Wofford, Jesse Peters, Carol Coppinger, and Pat and Linda Parelli.

     4. Kaylee Taylor

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Willow Farm

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Path Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI)

     5. Melinda Ingalls

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Willow Farm

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Mindy Ingalls is a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI), and serves The Shane Center as the Grants Manager. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Arts and Humanities/Dance Therapy. She has over 20 years experience working in non-profit organizations, providing therapeutic and recreational opportunities to individuals of all ages and all abilities, as well as grant writing, and office management skills. She enjoys competing at horse shows and trail riding with her daughter. She and her family live on a horse-powered farm, using their Percheron draft horses.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Our programs go beyond riding as we teach all of our students the basics of horse care with an emphasis on safety and handling the horse on the ground. Instructors work with participants to establish short and long term goals that ensure the rider receives a fulfilling experience tailored to his or her needs. Individualized curriculum is developed to complement the lesson and focuses on building critical skills unique to each rider.
     
     •Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding—Our flagship program uses the medically-acknowledged benefits of riding a horse and provides a fun approach to improving the physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being of our participants. This is no PONY RIDE! Riding a horse helps take our clients beyond the confines of their disabilities. Students use their abilities to learn the actual skills involved in riding a horse.
     
     •Horsin’ Around— Designed for independent riders with special needs, as well as typical beginner and intermediate youth and adults. Lessons focus on learning natural horsemanship methods both on the ground and in the saddle. Classes emphasize learning to ride and focus on enabling students to be well rounded equestrians.
     
     The Shane Center serves individuals who have a variety of disabilities including: PTSD; anxiety; depression; cerebral palsy; Down syndrome; spina bifida; autism spectrum disorders; developmental delays; learning disabilities; attention deficit disorders; as well as other cognitive and physical disabilities. Participants range in age from 4 to adult and come from all over Central Ohio including Knox, Franklin, Licking, Delaware, and Morrow Counties.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     The Shane center provides community outreach and public education through its trainings, community service opportunities, and local events.
     
     Through the Knox County juvenile court system, The Shane Center offers community service hours for teens who are on probation. This volunteer program not only benefits the center, but gives the teens a real sense of giving back to the community and often exposes them to our most vulnerable members of society for the first time.
     
     In addition, the center provides information about its services at local service fairs to recruit volunteers and riders. These events give the community more information about The Shane Center and its programs.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine. 

Religious Affiliation:
Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered. 

Auction Donation:
Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter. 

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
    A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
    During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time

The typical length of quarantine is:   Up to 10 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Fecal test
    De-worming

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Jumping
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Equine conformation to include the top line, length of back, strength and width of loin, bone density (measured by the circumference of the cannon bone just below the knee)
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Terrain and footing in the working environment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
    Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   2-3 times per week

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
    Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
    Veterinarian

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing Agreement
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
    Our organization does NOT re-home an equine to first time equine owners
    Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    The distance of a potential adopter/purchaser's home from our facility is a consideration for when re-homing an equine
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility
    Potential adopters/purchasers are encouraged to do a short-term, on-site foster with the equine

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that if there is any breach of contract the equine must be returned to our organization
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers can return an equine to our organization free of charge
    The agreement states that adopters/purchasers are required to provide updates (photos, vet records) for one year

Our organization requires references from the following:
    Veterinarian
    Farrier
    Personal/Other

Transfer of ownership occurs:   Immediately (at the time of adoption/purchase) or less than one year

The average equine re-homing (adoption/purchase) fee received by your organization:
Not applicable; None received

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Since there may be a circumstance where an adopter wishes to return a horse and the organization is at maximum capacity we would find temporary housing with a local boarding facility until the horse can be rehomed.
     
     When a horse is permanently removed from program activities, the following order is used to determine where they will retire:
     A. If the owner has indicated that they want to accept the horse back at retirement, then they have first right of refusal.
     B.The horse is offered to current volunteers, participants and staff persons. If more than one of these persons offers to give the horse a home, then the person who has been active with the center the longest will be given preference.
     C. The horse is offered to the public.
     
     Please note that each potential horse retirement home is visited by the program director and a member of the equine team to confirm that it is a suitable placement. Each potential adopter must be approved prior to placement of the equine.
     
     All horses will remain on the program property until a good home has been found. It is our belief that these horses have given us their dedication and we will not euthanize them unless their quality of life warrants it as recommended by a veterinarian.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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Willow Farm
7908 Myers Road Centerburg OH 43011
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 10
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 14
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 14

Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Lease

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     The Knox County Dog Shelter/Animal Control John Carhart dogwarden@co.knox.oh.us 285 Columbus Road Mt. Vernon, OH 43050 740-393-6713 or 740-393-6714

Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? Yes

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:  5

Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)

     1. Amanda Woods
     2. Emily Kinzer
     3. Karen Sanchez
     4. Kaylee Taylor
     5. Melinda Ingalls

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Willow Farm

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Laurie Gallatin
Clinic Name: Countryside Veterinary Center
2232 OH 61
Sunbury   OH   43074
Phone: 740-965-8111

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Overview: Willow Farm (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 12
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2  Run-in sheds: 4
Pastures: 3  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 3
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1














Regarding structures/barns where horses are housed other than run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 0-3;

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/shelters?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    

Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) and emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes    
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Willow Farm (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines, or if not at all times, at least twice daily?     Yes    

Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises

Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises

Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week

Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
    Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
    Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
    Fly parasites
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers and footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: Willow Farm: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans


The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Monthly
Smoke detectors are checked: Monthly
Electrical Systems are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Quarterly
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Quarterly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  1 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $25K to $35K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: *Missing
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): *Missing
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): *Missing
IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990 has not been uploaded for this facility.


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  11
Number of Board Members:  8  Number of Voting Board Members:  8

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  Yes  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No
If yes, provide the name, title and responsibility of each VOTING Board member who is compensated:
The Board President, Joel Sanchez, and Executive Director, Karen Sanchez, (husband and wife) are indirectly compensated by being paid monthly rent from the organization.


Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
The Executive Director, Karen Sanchez, is married to the Board President, Joel Sanchez, and they also own the property where the organization is located.

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board and/or Staff member, and the name of the related organization.
The Executive Director, Karen Sanchez, is married to the Board President, Joel Sanchez, and they own the property where the organization is located.

Conflict of Interest:
Does your organization have a written conflict of interest policy that ensures that any compensated board member is a NON-VOTING (Independent) board member or that any compensated board member or any board member related to a compensated staff member, independent contractor, or any related board members, or any individual or organization that might benefit from a board decision, abstains from voting on issues impacting such compensation and requires officers, directors or trustees, and key employees to disclose at least annually in writing interests that could give rise to conflicts?  Yes


Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable:  The Shane Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship at Willow Farm is a Premier Accredited Center of Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). This accreditation covers the physical facilities as well as the administrative and program aspects of the services offered at the center.

Organization documents available on our website:
    Volunteer Handbook

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Adoption/Foster Agreement
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Karen Sanchez
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  2  Part-Time:  5  Volunteers:  33
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Volunteers required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Volunteers are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Volunteers are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers carry current health insurance
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Volunteers are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Volunteers receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Volunteers are assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
The Instructors at The Shane Center are professional certified therapeutic riding instructors (CTRI) and are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education every 24 months. Other staff includes a part time Facility Manager, Grants Manager, and full time Program Director. Our volunteers assist while participants are riding, help with horse and facility care, and support our fundraising events with both time and money. Without our volunteers we couldn’t fulfill our mission. People volunteer because it is a way to “give back”, have fun, and develop new friendships. Most volunteers will tell you they get more out of being here than they feel they give! Our employees and our volunteers go well above and beyond the minimum requirements we set forth in their job descriptions.