MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
EquiCenter fosters growth, wellness, and educational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities through the power of equestrian, horticultural and outdoor experiences.

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 outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Over 90% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
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:
Over the past year, EquiCenter celebrated its 20th anniversary, and with it many successes in bettering the lives of our participants. Some of the most significant accomplishments include;
     
     *Capacity-building plan to address the waitlist of over 150 individuals seeking adaptive riding lessons - including the start of construction of the new indoor arena, a CTRI certification program, and a herd acquisition plan.
     
     *The signature equine program delivered over 8,000 lessons to 292 unique participants. Of these, more than 60% were individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, 25% were Veterans, 5% were First Responders, and 10% were adults with physical disabilities.
     
     *By focusing on regenerative growing practices to improve soil health, the teaching farm’s production increased 50% year-over-year. EquiCenter donated over 30,000 servings of vegetables to hunger relief programs, including Trillium Health, Veterans Outreach Center, and the YWCA.
     
     *Ongoing delivery of the Horticulture & Equine Active Learning (H.E.A.L.) Program continues to support local schools and youth-serving organizations, primarily in underserved communities. In 2024, EquiCenter provided over 2,400 hours of programming to 600+ unique individuals from 15 schools including East High, RCSD No. 15, 19, 29, 45, Hillside, and Genesee Valley BOCES.
     
     *The launch of the First Responder Equine Therapeutics Pilot Program. 110 lessons to 12 unique participants were delivered in this initial year.
     
     *The successful launch of the Food Pharmacy Program in partnership with Trillium Health and Headwater Foods, where patients are prescribed fresh food to help improve health outcomes. EquiCenter provides the educational component of the program which includes cooking classes and farming workshops.
     
     *Continued expansion of the Community Garden Support Initiative which provides plant starts and seeds to community gardens that do not have the capacity to start their own plants. In 2024, EquiCenter exceeded the anticipated distribution goal, providing 5,623 plants to 32 community growing spaces covering every quadrant of the City of Rochester.
     
     Looking ahead, EquiCenter is committed to expanding access to its programs white ensuring long-term program sustainability. As the only PATH, Intl. Premier Accredited Center in the Greater Rochester region, EquiCenter adheres to the highest standards of safety, equine welfare, professionalism, and program effectiveness. This accreditation uniquely positions EquiCenter as a model in providing equine-assisted services and with a waitlist now exceeding 140 individuals, it's clear that demand outweighs our current capacity.
     
     To address this need and ensure everyone can benefit from our programs, EquiCenter must overcome three key constraints: a shortage of certified instructors, limited indoor riding space due to our climate, and the necessity of maintaining a diverse and appropriate herd of horses. Investments in instructor training, facility expansion, and herd management will allow EquiCenter to significantly reduce the waitlist and provide life-changing services to more individuals. By leveraging our accreditation, expert staff, and strategic capacity-building initiatives, EquiCenter is well-positioned for sustainable growth.



Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) all 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:

Question #1:
     (Guideline #1) EquiCenter prioritizes the comfort and dignity of their equines, ensuring mutually beneficial interactions through careful planning and individualized care. To achieve this, each horse's workload is managed with designated weekly lesson limits, including unmounted horsemanship, preventing overexertion. Furthermore, student-horse pairings are thoughtfully made based on equine personality, considering preferences for grooming, leading, and prop work, fostering positive interactions. For mounted lessons, rigorous weight limits are established, calculated as a percentage of the horse's body weight, adjusted for age, confirmation, and health conditions, with further reductions for saddle and pad weight, and rider balance. This ensures the horse's physical well-being and prevents strain. Lesson durations are kept within 30-45 minutes under saddle, and a holistic approach to equine health is maintained, incorporating professional saddle fitting, chiropractic, acupuncture, cold laser therapy, and massage. This comprehensive care demonstrates a commitment to the equines' physical and mental well-being, treating them as valued partners rather than mere tools.
     
     (Guideline #2) All of our therapy horses are chosen based on their quiet, calm and friendly dispositions. IF we ever try a horse that we know will not be happy in a lesson program we do not accept them into our program. Should a horse demonstrate behaviors indicating it is no longer happy being a lesson horse it is retired, returned to its owner or transferred to another barn where it can enjoy a different job (after careful research and consideration).
     
     (Guide #3) EquiCenter prioritizes the individual welfare of its equines by carefully tailoring programs and activities to each horse's temperament and needs. This is achieved through a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, instructors meticulously select horses for each student based on potential partnership, matching personalities and considering the horse's preferences and capabilities. This includes evaluating whether a horse enjoys working with props, its tolerance for trotting, and its aptitude for connection work, ensuring a comfortable and positive experience. Secondly, a pre-lesson evaluation is conducted by the instructor to assess the horse's current comfort level. Any signs of health or behavioral concerns result in the immediate removal of the horse from the lesson, and the Barn Manager or Senior Director of Operations is notified. This proactive monitoring ensures that each equine's individual welfare is respected and protected, and that their involvement in activities is appropriate to their temperament and well-being.
     
     (Guideline #4) EquiCenter ensures programs and activities minimize impact on equines and their environment through rigorous staff training and comprehensive safety protocols. All instructors hold PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) certification, demonstrating adherence to established equine welfare guidelines. Prior to each lesson, instructors conduct thorough horse checks, immediately removing any equine exhibiting signs of stress, unsoundness, health, or behavioral concerns. The Barn Manager and Senior Director of Operations are promptly notified of such incidents. To safeguard both equine and human participants, lessons are immediately terminated if a student poses a safety risk, and the Senior Director of Programming is informed. All staff, volunteers, and participants are trained in emergency dismount procedures, and staff undergo extensive Emergency Action Plan training covering all facility-related scenarios. In preparation for unforeseen emergencies, first aid kits are strategically located throughout the facility, including the classroom, house, and South Barn, which also houses an AED and a dedicated equine first aid kit and supply room. All PATH instructors are First Aid/CPR certified, and the organization benefits from the expertise of a Licensed Veterinary Technician (Senior Director of Operations) and a Barn Manager with extensive animal health experience, ensuring prompt and appropriate responses to equine emergencies, with a veterinarian readily available when needed.
     
     (Guideline #5) The “Horse Usage and Care” section of our CTRI handbook reads as follows:
     
     “Our horses are the heart of our program, and as instructors, we are responsible for their health and well-being. Ensure that all equipment is properly fitted, horses are thoroughly groomed, and they are warmed up appropriately before lessons. The horse must be observed to be sound and calm prior to the start of their lesson by the instructor. It is also essential to monitor that riders are not negatively impacting the horses, paying close attention to their balance and form. For example, do not allow a student to bounce on the horse’s back if they are unable to maintain balance and remain centered. Our horses perform demanding work, so it is crucial to balance their workload, especially when it comes to trot work, to maximize their comfort and longevity. If you encounter any issues with a horse, please report them immediately to the Senior Director of Operations so a plan can be developed.”
     
     In addition to written policy, all equine staff including instructors are trained in EquiCenter’s procedures for selecting, monitoring, and ensuring the well-being of equines in care. Before a horse is incorporated into active programming, it undergoes a trial period lasting two to eight weeks in which staff assess soundness, groundwork, and under-saddle behavior through mock lessons to determine whether the horse will be comfortable and well-suited as a lesson horse. Only after successfully passing this evaluation do horses begin a gradual integration into lessons under close monitoring to ensure their mental and physical well-being. At the start of each session and upon approval by the Senior Director of Operations and Senior Director of Programming, instructors carefully select horses for participants based on weight limits, workload, and personality compatibility.
     
     EquiCenter has clear mechanisms to allow equines to “opt out” of program participation. If a horse exhibits any concerning behavior it is immediately removed from the lesson schedule and evaluated by staff, and a veterinarian if necessary, before returning to programming. All behavioral concerns are documented and tracked to identify potential causes. Additionally, instructors evaluate each horse at the start of every lesson, and remove them from lessons if further assessment is determined necessary. The Barn Manager conducts weekly evaluations to proactively address any changes in health, soundness, or behavior.
     
     Safety is paramount at EquiCenter. As a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center, all equine programming adheres to the highest industry safety standards. In addition to PATH guidelines and standards of operations, EquiCenter follows internal safety protocols outlined in our instructor manual, volunteer handbook, participant handbook, employee handbook, and emergency action plan.
     
     All programming aligns with EquiCenter’s mission to foster growth, wellness, and educational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities through the power of equestrian, horticultural, and outdoor experiences. This ensures that our equine-assisted services remain focused on providing meaningful, mission-driven experiences while prioritizing the well-being of both our participants and our horses.
     
     Question #2:
     EquiCenter provides comprehensive, high-quality care for all equines in our programs. With over 12 spacious pasrtures, our horses live in a social herd environment year-round, ensuring ample opportunity for natural interaction and movement. Each pasture is equipped with at least one automatic waterer and run-in shed to offer shelter and protection from inclement weather.
     
     Our horses have consistent access to nutritious food catered to their needs. EquiCenter produces a majority of its own hay on-site to ensure a reliable source of high-quality feed. Additionally, we maintain strong partnerships with veterinarians, farriers, acupuncturists, and other equine health professionals to provide routine and specialized care.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding
    Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

10: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at EquiCenter

     1 Audrey DiMatteo

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Occupational Therapist

     2 Debi Houliares

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         CTRI, Mentor

     3 Heidi Vahue

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

     4 Joan Maher

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         CTRI
Special Education Early Intervention Teacher

     5 Katie Hurlburt

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Advanced CTRI, Mentor
OTA

     6 Lindsay Alberts

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         CTRI, Mentor
Licensed Veterinary Technician

     7 Molly Ryan

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

     8 Samantha Schaubroeck

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Advanced CTRI, Mentor

     9 Sara McLaughlin

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Bachelor in Social Work
CTRI and Mentor

     10 Susan Gilson

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         EquiCenter

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Riding

         Therapeutic/Adaptive Unmounted Horsemanship

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Grand Prix Dressage Rider
Professional Dressage Trainer

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Adaptive Riding (mounted) program serves children and adults with special needs including veterans and at risk youth. All instructors are PATH certified and use a variety of methods to enhance participants' horsemanship skills as well as physical and cognitive abilities. Instructors develop an individualized plan for each participant in accordance with their goals.
     
     Further, each lesson is assisted by a trained volunteer team, which lead the horse and walk alongside the rider to help stabilize and support as needed.
     
     Many who ride in our programs have medically diagnosed conditions including but not limited to:
     ADD and ADHD
     Autism Spectrum
     Cerebral Palsy
     Developmental Delay
     Down Syndrome
     Epilepsy
     Freidreichs Ataxia
     Hypotonia
     Intellectual Challenges
     Multiple Sclerosis​
     Post Traumatic Stress
     Spinal Cord Injuries
     Stroke
     Traumatic Brain Injury
     Tourette’s Syndrome
     Visual Impairment
     
     Therapeutic Unmounted Servicfes - In this unmounted program, working with a member of our equine herd, participants learn individual responsibility, relationship, and communication skills and gain an appreciation for teamwork, self-discipline and trust. Through the activities, participants develop a sense of purpose as they help care for horses who are, in turn, caring for individuals with disabilities and veterans.
     
     ​Participants learn and improve skills which include but are not limited to:
     
     Horse Grooming
     Leading
     Recognizing horse body language and horse communication
     How to work around horses safely
     Horse chores

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Mission Mustang - In 2018, EquiCenter launched Mission Mustang® as part of our ongoing effort to help veterans heal from the physical and emotional scars of war. Veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) are often hyper-vigilant of their surroundings and struggling to find purpose and mission. To help them integrate back into civilian society, we partnered with the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to develop Mission Mustang®, a national program that pairs veterans battling PTS with captive mustangs experiencing the same feelings of loss and anxiety. Under the guidance of professional mustang trainers, the veterans gentle the mustangs, they teach the horses and prepare them to find new homes or become part of the adaptive riding program here at EquiCenter. Through this process, both the mustangs and veterans find connection and healing.
     
     The Horticulture and Equine Active Learning program is a nature based program offering 1 day or multi week opportunities to schools and corporate groups in the Finger Lakes region. Taking advantage of all we have to offer on our 200 acre property, HEAL combines and highlights our equine and horticulture programs into one unique experience. Horses, plants, and the beautiful natural surroundings are great reminders of mindfulness, teaching participants to slow down and be present. Touching a horse and digging your hands in the soil are both rich opportunities for learning and may be linked to relieving stress and developing a greater sense of connection.
     
     Year-to-date, EquiCenter has welcomed over 1,400 school-aged youth. The school-based program provided educational opportunities for over 1400 school aged youth in public school systems in Rochester, NY and the surrounding areas in 2023. Providing a large population of students the opportunity to gain horse knowledge and experience hands on in our safe PATH certified center. Equicenter partnered with over 14 schools and local youth serving organizations to facilitate unique educational opportunities to underprivileged youth at little or no cost to the district. We believe that our equity based programming is making a difference through the local community by offering students who may not otherwise ever encounter a horse the chance to fall in love with the animal and the sport, growing the community to keep our horse world alive for years to come. Our unique program with Mustangs and the exposure to all that horses experience is just one of the many educational components included in student visits. From learning how horses communicate , to pasture picking and horse maintenance we hope students walk away with a greater knowledge of careers in the field and how they can become involved.

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. 

Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
 Therapeutic Horticulture - The EquiCenter Farm provides Therapeutic Horticulture programs for veterans. Participants in this program meet weekly at EquiCenter for classes. Each session includes group discussion, hands-on instruction, farm-to-table cooking class, and community lunch.
     
     School Groups - Taking advantage of all we have to offer on our 200 acre property, HEAL combines our equine and horticulture programs into one unique experience. Horses, plants, and the beautiful natural surroundings are great reminders of mindfulness, teaching participants to slow down and be present. Touching a horse and digging your hands in the soil are both rich opportunities for learning and may be linked to relieving stress and developing a greater sense of connection. Special field trip opportunities are available for Maple Syrup Production, Intro to Beekeeping, and Honey Spinning on a seasonal basis.

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POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

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
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
    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:   20 to 30 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned by a veterinarian upon arrival

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
    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 by the veterinarian
    Vaccinations are administered 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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist

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

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Intake questions: What has the horse done in the past?; Any soundness or health issues?; Good with props? (balls, flags, tarps, etc.); Good with loud noises?: Polite in hand?
     
     We will visit the horse at his/her home. We will walk & trot the horse in hand to see how easily he/she goes in hand. Since most our lessons are lead line lessons, it is important the horse is not pushy or rushy. We will also bring a flag and a ball to see his/her reactions. It is ok if they react as long as they do not try to kick the ball or run away. If the horse seems good with all of those things, we will lunge the horse to assess soundness. We may hop on to see how the horse does with movement on his/her back (leaning, leg swinging, etc.). If we think the horse has potential, we will discuss bringing the horse to EquiCenter for a trial period lasting 2-6 weeks. During this trial period, only staff will work with the horse doing mock lessons inside and outside and exposing the horse to different scenarios that may happen in a lesson. If we feel the horse is safe enough to join the program, we will then move into a one month free lease to make sure the horse is happy in lessons. We will then move on to a longer lease, donation or purchase depending on the situation. We keep a checklist of what we expose the horse to and how the horse reacts during the trial period to give it a "pass" or "fail". We have an exercise schedule created weekly for our horses to do a trail ride, arena ride and a lunge or long line each weekly to keep them fit.

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 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

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 organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.

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, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must be notified of the name, address, and telephone number 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.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
    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

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:
Over $1,500

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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EquiCenter
3247 Rush Mendon Road Honeoye Falls NY 14472
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 34

Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 50

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

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.
     Monroe County Animal Services: (585) 428-7274

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:  10

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

     1. Audrey DiMatteo
     2. Debi Houliares
     3. Heidi Vahue
     4. Joan Maher
     5. Katie Hurlburt
     6. Lindsay Alberts
     7. Molly Ryan
     8. Samantha Schaubroeck
     9. Sara McLaughlin
     10. Susan Gilson

Our horses are fed in separate dishes in their pastures. Staff separates the dishes (spreads them out far) and waits with the horses until they finish to ensure each horse is getting their assigned feed, supplements and medications.

For overnight watch we have cameras set up at different locations across the property and a camera in a specific stall in case we need to watch a horse overnight.

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EquiCenter

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Leibeck, Dr. Ayers, Dr. Pell
Clinic Name: Genesee Valley Equine Clinic
925 Scottsville-Chili Rd
Scottsville   NY   14546
Phone: 585-889-1170

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Overview: EquiCenter (*Main) Currently operational
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 50
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 2  Run-in sheds: 8
Pastures: 11  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 5
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1










































Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes    
Are the organization's emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes    
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes    

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    No    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 0-3;
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    
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    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    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7
    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:
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    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 man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    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:
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    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 that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: EquiCenter (*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)
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records

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 groups
    Staff and/or 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 secure 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:
    Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    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
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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 are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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 removed from the facility - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, 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
    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

Additional information on biosecurity:
Our horses do not travel. New horses are quarantined upon arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    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 wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    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
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    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
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    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: EquiCenter: *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 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
    Terrorist attacks
    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
    Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Monthly
Smoke detectors are checked: Monthly
Fence lines are checked: Weekly
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: Quarterly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Quarterly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Quarterly

Equine Transportation: 4= Onsite: 0 (0 + 0) + Offsite: 4
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  2 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 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  1 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:  $1M to $2M
Equine Budget:   $150K to $250K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  11
Number of Board Members:  9  Number of Voting Board Members:  9

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  No  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? No

Board/Staff 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? No

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:  No licenses are required at the local, state or federal level.

Organization documents available on our website:
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Volunteer Handbook

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


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Katherine Hatch, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  11  Part-Time:  30  Volunteers:  220
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 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
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    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 Executive Director serves as a non-voting member of the Board. Voting board members are listed on our website.