EQUUS Foundation

MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
HERD Foundation’s mission is to provide the South Florida area with equine-assisted services designed to empower individuals to achieve personal development through the unique relationship between humans and horses.

     Our sessions are based on the treatment models of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH).

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 horse-related.
Our organization does not use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities
Number of facilities/locations where horses used in our programs are HOUSED AND CARED FOR or were HOUSED AND CARED FOR during 2022: 1
     1. Johnson's Folly Horse Farm (*Main) Status: 2023 and 2022

Summary of organization's goals, strategies to achieve the goals, accomplishments, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
HERD FOUNDATION 2022 Accomplishments
     PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS in 2022
     Freedom Patch programs
     Freedom Patch 1: 29
     Freedom Patch 2: 6
     Freedom Patch Domiciliary: 39
     Freedom Patch Fall In Fridays: 8
     TOTAL OF PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS : 81


     HERD Foundation turned its focus to sustainability in 2022. This has been achieved through the Board of Director’s strategic planning and devotion of the HERD team. HERD Foundation’s dedication to Veteran services has always been at the heart of the organization. Over the last 2 years HERD has provided over 300 sessions, primarily to Veterans in our community and other underserved populations. All of these sessions were provided at no cost to the participants. In support of HERD’s commitment to providing a sustainable and continuous veterans program, HERD negotiated the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding with the West Palm Beach Veterans Administration for another 3 years. HERD’s organizational structure is another key to their sustainability. All personnel are independent contractors or paid fee for service, the horses, office space, and venue are leased through the hosting farm, and HERD’s voluntary Board of Directors provides a majority of its administrative and managerial services. This allows HERD to function with very little overhead permitting all funds to go directly to the individuals served. Lastly, HERD achieved Premier Facility accreditation through PATH Int., recognizing HERD as a program of excellence and entering it into the Wounded Warrior Project network.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic Unmounted Services
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

2: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

     1. Nongae Johnson

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Therapeutic Unmounted Services

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Therapeutic Riding Instructor/Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning: PATH Int'l - Denver, CO 2011
Equestrian Studies: Meredith Manor International Equestrian Center - Waverly, WV 1985
Horsemanship: Handling/Care Parelli University - Reddick, FL - 2011

2. Rhonda Fritzshall

FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

SERVICES PROVIDED:

Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     The programs we offer are:
     1. FREEDOM PATCH
     This program is for military veterans. The Objective of the Freedom Patch programs is to improve the mental health and well-being of veterans. Our goal is to connect humans to horses so that participants can learn the skills of connection and belonging. Our hope is that when participants engage with horses in the arena they learn how to build healthy and attuned relationships, both with themselves and others.

     2. THE HEART OF THE HERD
     This is a program designed to help the family in several different areas. For parents to help develop practical parenting skills. For Couples to assist in strengthening relationships through communication, openness, and greater self-awareness. For children to help develop coping skills to deal with today's obstacles. These programs help assist participants in making positive and lasting changes in their relationships with themselves and others.

     3. FOSTERING CONNECTION
     Fostering Connection is a program designed to help youth who have encountered specific life circumstances like being involved with the foster care system or experiencing homelessness. The unique aspects of a horse herd show us that community can exist both within and outside of a biological family.
     Our equine partners assist in providing youth and emerging adults with alternative ways to develop confidence, form healthier relationships, and gain trust and resiliency in a safe space. The program is intended to build connected relationships with oneself, the horse, and others.

At a time when equestrian sports are under pressure to protect horses while making those sports more accessible, so too must all equine organizations ensure that horses are treated humanely when interacting with people with and without special needs. Our organization takes the following steps to ensure that horses are benefiting from their interactions with people:
     The organization continuously assesses the horses mood, weight and overall well being.

Community Outreach and/or Public Education:

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
The organization has relationship with: The West Palm Beach VA Medical Center through a Memorandum of Understanding the Freedom Patch is offered to veteran participants referred by the VA, in partnership with The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach HERD Foundation has ran a couple of groups of the Fostering Connection Program, the Delray Police Department, the City of Delray Beach,Fire Department, the Delray Chamber of Commerce ,and other non profit organizations in the area by keeping them updated with the HERD Foundation 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.

EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES CENSUS

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

Equine Assisted Services (EAS)


2022 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 2	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Horses/Equines participating in EAS programs at this facility
Number of horses/equines aged 3-8	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	3	0	3
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	3	0	3
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	6	0	6

	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works	0	4
Number of days per week each horse works	0	6

Clients participating in EAS programs at this facility	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Total number of individual clients (not lessons) served annually	0	90	0	90
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week	0	15	0	15

	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility	0	6
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility	0	50

	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1

1. Johnson's Folly Horse Farm (*Main) Status: 2023 and 2022

6 Total number of horses involved with your programs on January 1, 2022
PLUS: Horse Intake during 2022
0 Donated
0 Lease
0 Purchase from Owner
0 Auction
0 Kill Pen/Feedlot
0 Surrendered
0 Seized
0 Abandoned
0 Returned
0 Transfer
0 Born at facility
0 Adoption from Rescue
0 Owner Owned
0 Total intakes
LESS: Horse Departure during 2022
0 Horses adopted/sold:
0 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
0 Horses euthanized
0 Total departures
6 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2022
6 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.

Summary: 6 on 1/1/2022+ Intakes - 0 Departures = 6 on 12/31/2022

Total days that equines were in the care of HERD Foundation during 2022: 2190

2022 Johnson's Folly Horse Farm Equine Census
6 Total number of horses involved with your programs on January 1, 2022
PLUS: Horse Intake during 2022
0 Donated
0 Lease
0 Purchase from Owner
0 Auction
0 Kill Pen/Feedlot
0 Surrendered
0 Seized
0 Abandoned
0 Returned
0 Transfer
0 Born at facility
0 Adoption from rescue
0 Owner Owned
0 Total intakes
LESS: Horse Departure during 2022
0 Horses adopted/sold:
0 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
0 Horses euthanized
0 Total departures
6 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2022
6 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.

Summary: 6 on 1/1/2022+ 0 Intakes - 0 Departures = 6 on 12/31/2022

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Lease

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation
    Purchase/Adoption from Owner
    Auction
    Kill pen/Feedlot
    Return
    Surrender
    Seizure
    Abandonment

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares

Not Checked:
    Pregnant Mares
    Foals
    Stallions
    Only Stallions to be castrated

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
HERD Foundation leases the horses from Johnson's Folly, they are a paid lease not a free lease.

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:
    A current Coggins
    Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations
    A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival attesting to the health status of the equine is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine

Not Checked:

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
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    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
    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

Not Checked:
    Equines are not taken on trial
    Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival and/or prior to quarantine departure
    Physical examination by trained barn staff
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist

Not Checked:
    Coggins test
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no microchip

Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
The equine is not quarantined

Not Checked:
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time
The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine off-site for a prescribed period of time

The typical length of quarantine is:   Horses are not quarantined

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

Not Checked:
Driving (Pulling a carriage)

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    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
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually

Not Checked:
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records

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:
No equines are ridden; not applicable

Not Checked:
Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
Our organization does not evaluate 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:
No equines are ridden; not applicable

Not Checked:
    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
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   As needed; no set schedule

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
Any horses who came to the farm, came from another program with a Certificate of Health form a veterinarian. There recently has been a stall built that can be utilized to quarantine an incoming horse if needed.

     The horses are evaluated and maintained by the facility (Johnson’s Folly) from which HERD Foundation leases the horses. The facility is currently in the process of adopting the Henneke Body Condition Scale for future use of incoming horses.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, does NOT breed equines.
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

Not Checked:
The facility or facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines

Additional information about our breeding policies and practices:
Only well behaved stallions would be permitted at the facility where conduct our programs

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization may have a healthy equine euthanized if it is a threat to itself, other equines, or people and euthanasia is recommended by a veterinarian
    Our organization may 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

Not Checked:
Our organization will never have a healthy equine euthanized under any circumstances
Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility

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

Not Checked:
    A certified euthanasia technician
    Senior staff with appropriate training
    Employee of animal control shelter or humane society with appropriate training
    Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian
    Not applicable. Our organization prohibits euthanasia under any circumstances

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing Agreement
Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer useful, or are no longer manageable:
Our organization does not have the authority to transfer ownership and/or does not own any of the equines involved with our programs.

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
The re-homing agreement is the re-homing agreement of Folly Farm, where HERD Foundation conducts its programs. HERD Foundation does not own any horses and does not have the authority to transfer ownership of any horses involved in its programs.

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 use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm
14052 52ND AVE SOUTH DELRAY BEACH FL 33484
Contact: NONGAE JOHNSON
Contact's Phone: 561-665-0083
Contact's Email: jfolly1966@aol.com

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

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.
     SGT. Kelso 7100 Belvedere Road West Palm Beach, FL. 33411 561-233-1209 www.pbcgov.com/pubsafety/animal

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: 2

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

     1. Nongae Johnson
     2. Rhonda Fritzshall

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

Veterinarian Information
Vet Assessment conducted on 01/20/2023

Veterinarian: Dr Paul Caputo
Clinic Name: Southeast Equine Veterinary Associates
7120 Cutter Ct
Parkland FL 33067
Phone: 954-788-5522

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm: *Main

Grounds
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs at this facility: 6
Of the total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs at this facility, the number of horses that are microchipped:
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those not involved with your programs: 40
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 45
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens: 1
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 1  Indoor Rings: 0

Regarding structures at this facility where horses are stalled:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    Yes
Do all stalls/enclosures allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around?    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/enclosures?    Yes
How often are the stalls/enclosures cleaned? 6-7 Days a Week
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to control temperature and prevent buildup of toxic gases?    Yes
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety?    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 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 stalled? 4-8
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day

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 natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

Not Checked:
This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
Barbed wire is used for fencing

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
    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

Not Checked:
This facility does not have turnout areas
Barbed wire is used for fencing

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
    Equines are checked overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    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)
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service

Johnson's Folly Horse Farm

Equine Care

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 age and any health issues
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed in individual stalls
    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 debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Not Checked:
Equines are fed in groups

Do horses have access to clean drinking water at all times?     Yes

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

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

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

Parasite Control: Our organization has the following worming protocols in place: (Check all that apply
    The protocol for each equine is determined in consultation with a veterinarian

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Feed Through Products
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

Not Checked:
    Our organization follows the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is 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 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
    Shared equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex 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 stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by state and/or local authorities

Not Checked:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are covered
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property::
    Equines are assigned the same stall/location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Not Checked:
    Photos are located on the stall
    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

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.

Not Checked:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

Emergency Preparedness
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 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 maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures

Not Checked:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

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

Not Checked:
Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Semi-annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Semi-annually
Electrical Systems are checked: Semi-annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Not at all/NA
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Semi-annually
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Semi-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  1 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  1 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

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO): Rhonda Fritzshall
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time: 0  Part-Time: 7  Volunteers: 5
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    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
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors have a written 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
    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

Not Checked:
    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.
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    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
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Every volunteer is required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Every volunteer is required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Every volunteer is required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    Every volunteer is updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Every volunteer receives training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Every volunteer is 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 provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated

Not Checked:
    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.
    Every volunteer carries current health insurance
    Every volunteer has a written job description
    Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on 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 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
    Every volunteer is subject to Random Drug Screening

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year: 12
Number of Board Members: 5  Number of Voting Board Members: 5

Board Compensation:
Is Board Chair compensated? No  Is 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? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
One of the Board Members is married to the Executive Director.

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members or Staff 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.
Nongae Johnson is an equine specialist for HERD Foundation and owns the facility where programs are conducted.

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: PATH Int'l Accredited Premiere Facility EAGALA Certified Equine Professionals Natural Lifemanship Certified Equine Professionals

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

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

Budget:  $10K to $100K
Equine Budget:   Under $10K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Compilation
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990-EZ
Does the uploaded Pro Forma 990/990 represent 2022? Yes
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990