2012 ANNOUNCEMENT ~ February 14, 2012
To all persons involved in H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc.:
As our program continues to grow, very quickly, so are our demands, expenses, expectations and goals. We are so lucky to offer this exceptional program that changes people’s lives in so many positive ways. Thank you for being a part of it.
During the 2009 to 2011 riding seasons, our list of riders went from about 20 to roughly 50, with about 25 currently on a waiting list. This is very exciting for H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc…with growth, comes change and this announcement is about the future of our program. Over several months of meetings and conversations the decision has been made to consolidate our program to one location, which will be Carson Park in Paducah. We realize this business decision will impinge on some of our riders and volunteers, of which we sincerely apologize. Knowing the reasons for this move should help you understand that our next phase for H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. is going to be very big.
In the past 3 years we have applied and been denied grants that would have allowed us to expand the Dexter location. However, the arena is on personal property, not deemed “commercial” and building on personal property is not allowed within the guidelines of grants we have pursued. This, in and of itself is enough to keep holding us back. Insurance is another concern. Although H.OR.S.E.S. Inc. has appropriate insurance in place, we are still on personal property which could potentially become a conflict if the arena, barn, etc. were destroyed. We would not be able to re-build, as it’s on personal property….
Having 12 horses is another challenge. We are simply out of room…..
The board of directors of Carson Park, along with McCracken County Judge Executive have invited H.O.R.S.E.S., Inc. to be a permanent resident at Carson Park. What this means for us is:
1. More space
2. More classes offered
3. More exposure for our program
4. More opportunities for growth
Growth opportunities planned for H.OR.S.E.S.,Inc:
Horses for Heroes (Veterans)
Minis in Motion (Miniature horses to take to schools)
Project “Going Green” (Composting)
Interactive Vaulting
After School Projects/ field trips
Jr. Volunteer Program (for ages 11-14)
Sports Riding (Shows, Special Olympics, etc.)
Group Therapy (Utilizing a counselor or psychologist & horse)
Domestic Violence Retreat
Summer Camp (camp for kids)
Senior Project (for those 65 & over)
Mentor Program for At Risk Youth
Horse Trailer Project (Paint Horse Trailer & Apply Logo)
Instructor Workshop
Internship programs – barn manager, nonprofit leadership, horse care, office work
Grant writing – assistance through college non-profit leadership classes
As the 2012 riding season is very near, we are currently making the transition to Carson Park, thus starting to schedule riders and volunteers. We ask that you join us in our excitement and help us build a bigger, stronger, better program by helping us change lives!
Sincerely,
Joy Winebarger
Executive Director
