MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Ride On St. Louis exists to promote health and enrich lives through love, joy and holistic healing. We are a comprehensive conditioning and learning non-profit organization serving people with health complications through our partnership with the horse. Our health and wellness programs improve quality of life through individualized plans.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization does not 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

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:
Ride On St. Louis exists to promote health and enrich lives through love, joy and holistic healing. Ride On St. Louis professionals incorporate horse-human interaction and equine environment as a method to facilitate function, independence and integration into society. Our goal is to make substantial and sustaining quality of life improvements for the individuals we serve so that they may become more successful in fulfilling life’s daily challenges. Our approach to equine-assisted services through customized procedures pursues therapeutic physical, cognitive, emotional, social and/or spiritual developments and achievements valuable to our clients and their families. Since 1998, our horses have helped many take first steps, speak first words, discover happiness, inclusion, and independence, and attain many critical quality of life improvements. Without our equine partners, our outcomes would not be possible. Ride On St. Louis supports and protects our equines with a highly informed perspective and always puts their welfare above convenience or commercial interests, while remaining fiscally judicious. The quality and excellence of our organization is always a priority.
     
     We strive to provide a quality program, from our volunteer experience, to the happiness and willingness of our equine partners, to the values shared with our supporters, to the sustaining quality of life improvements our clients achieve. We cherish our relationships with foundations, organizations, and individuals that warrant us the privilege to continue to complement and enhance our community. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality services with significant, measured results.
     
     Staff complete continuing education through the following ways: disability related, special education, and or occupational therapy, physical therapy or speech language pathology conferences/meetings; conferences/meetings on general mental health-related issues for adults and children; higher education courses; online learning through courses, webinars or videos from higher education institutions, professional associations, or other reputable learning sources; equine welfare, management, behavior or skill clinics; college-level anatomy, physiology and biomechanics courses; academic or outcomes-based research; writing and submitting papers, articles or materials for publication; presenting on topics or research related to equine assisted services at professional conferences, symposiums, clinics and panel discussions; instructing/auditing/attending PATH Intl. workshops and or re/taking PATH Intl. online courses/exams; participating in hands-on exercises to increase professional competence; coaching or receiving coaching; and continuing education activities involving active participation that reflect pursuit of professional development and encourage self-reflection, and ultimately enhance skills and expand knowledge related to the industry.
     
     Staff equine professionals are formally trained individuals whose job descriptions may include management, caretaking, training and conditioning of program horses, handling during a session, training of horse handlers, and ensuring safety, comfort and optimal performance of the horse within a session. Our horses have been selected, conditioned and trained to be included in the delivery of services to people with mild to medically complex disabilities. Staff equine professionals select horses on characteristics including but not limited to: personality as it relates to the horse’s mental and psychological responses and adeptness in equine-assisted services, quality of movement (symmetry, rhythm, suppleness, straightness, adjustability, and self-carriage) or ability to attain quality of movement; soundness and condition (or ability to be conditioned), ability to vary impulsion, halt squarely and stand calmly during transfers and during equine-assisted services. Our equine professionals work with horses to discern between the communication from the handler and the client when sharing their space, and to enjoy of a variety of people around them, as well as sounds, sights and experiences without concern, stress or a significant reaction.
     
     Our program delivery volunteers are trained in and adhere to regulations regarding confidentiality and safety outlined in our comprehensive training programs. Program volunteers follow the directions of an instructor and assist in maintaining the safety and positive experience of a client during a session. These individuals may also include paid staff. Horse handlers are indicated individuals preparing and handling the horse prior to, during and following a session. They respond to directions by the instructor to alter the position or movement of the horse to cause a response in the participant during a session. They are responsible for monitoring the safety and well-being of the horse at all times. Ride On St. Louis specifically matches a small number of handlers to horses based on personality, relationship, experience and competence. Handlers may be staff, equine professionals, and or trained volunteers who meet requirements and competence indicators. Ride On St. Louis provides initial and ongoing training to all team members including staff, volunteers and horses.
     
     For 17 years of our 25-year history, Ride On St. Louis flourished on estate grounds in Kimmswick. Ride On St. Louis experienced repeated, horrific flooding of the Mississippi River while on the estate. At each event with the physical center in disarray and our herd of service horses evacuated to safety, program delivery staff were furloughed and clients were left waiting many months for services to return. Five separate times, we repaired, rebuilt, and began again. Ride On St. Louis exited the grounds in late 2018 to avoid recurrent, costly damages and ensure uninterrupted service for kids and adults with health challenges. (If Ride On St. Louis had elected to stay at this location, the center would have been flooded three more times.)
     
     In 2023 Ride On St. Louis leases a humble stable and serves our community, with consideration to our interim property limitations and standards for quality and safety. Our Ride On St. Louis Forever Home campaign seeks to increase financial capacity, program performance, and community presence through acquisition of our own property and advances activities to achieve our $2.8M goal. In 2023 the project builds upon the “quiet phase” of early planning in 2021-22. With this foundation in place, and $800+k in committed and or pledged capital, our 2023 activities center upon securing lead and insider gifts through ask-events and individual proposals. To date, we have continued achieving all campaign milestones proposed in our comprehensive advancement calendar.

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

1: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Private Residence in Cedar Hill

     1. Marita Wassman, ATRI, CTRI

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Private Residence in Cedar Hill

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Director, Co-Founder, credentialed Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Mentor with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) has 37 years’ experience in equine-assisted services and 43 years’ experience in a variety of equestrian enterprises. Marita trained and worked with top equestrian professionals such as Liz Young Millard (’68 United States Olympic Equestrian team), Otis Brown Stables, Pecan Tree stables and LePere Thoroughbred Training Center. These equestrian facilities included disciplines in hunter, jumper, dressage and conditioning thoroughbreds; she gained knowledge in breeding, foaling, training and designing youth and adult riding programs for typically developing individuals and those with special needs. Marita is a member of the American Hippotherapy Association and PATH Intl.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Barn Buddies - A skills program providing in-depth equine education, hands-on application and accountability for people with disabilities, health-related obstacles or hardships. The program focuses on skills inherent to the equine industry and includes study and performance in husbandry, handling, grooming, sanitation management, first aid, record keeping and team management skills. The goal of the program is to address, relate and achieve personal goals relevant to skill development, accident/injury recovery and coping, and/or emotional, cognitive, physical or behavioral improvements while producing confident individuals knowledgeable in equine care who can independently complete daily equine feed and sanitation requirements at Ride On St. Louis. Typical applicants are adults who have or have had professional job experience and are struggling to return to that job or meet current job demands; those who are developing or regaining vocational skills; those who can perform barn chores unattended (clients remain under direct supervision with staff until individually defined levels of competence are achieved); and those who are able to drive themselves to the site. Current clients have diagnoses of: brain tumor, stroke, cancer, depression and other psychiatric disorders.
     
     Unmounted Activities with Sports Horsemanship - Clients engage in activities that support comprehensive care and handling of equines and equine activities that are necessary and useful regarding safety procedures, horsemanship and care of equine interaction. Lessons address equine behavior, communication, grooming, equipment, leading, health, handling and overall basic horsemanship. Horses are beings with feelings, thoughts, emotions, memories and empathetic abilities and are highly social animals within their herd dynamics and interaction with humans. Social interaction opens areas for communication for self-discovery and develops character skills designed around essential components relating to horsemanship. Relationships between client and horse, client and instructor, and client and volunteer/s are formed to promote care and responsibility while gaining the fundamental knowledge of the equestrian world. Typical clientele include adolescents through seniors who may have contraindications to mounted equine-assisted services (e.g. weight, spinal instability, osteogenesis imperfecta, osteoporosis, indwelling catheters, coxa arthrosis, hemophilia, atlantoaxial instability, etc.). Current diagnoses served include vision impairment, cerebral palsy and depression.
     
     Unmounted Activities with Pony Bird - Ride On St. Louis is enhancing connectedness for both at-risk people with disabilities and their caregivers. The program is proud to partner with Pony Bird, a 24-hour residential facility for people who are non-ambulatory and have medically complex disabilities. Ride On St. Louis's program combats the day’s doldrums, chases away adverse health risks associated with loneliness/isolation, and brings back social life by providing opportunity for communication, self-discovery, and revitalization of the mind and body, and boosts caregiver morale, attitude and connectedness. Current clients include caregivers and people with diagnoses including: aggressive behaviors, cerebrovascular anomaly, chronic hypoxemic respiratory failure, chronic venous insufficiency, cirrhosis, coarctation aorta, convulsions NEC (not elsewhere classified), degenerative joint disease, dementia, disorder of infancy NOS (not otherwise specified), dysphagia, encephalitis, Gitelman syndrome, hearing impairment, hypersensitivity condition, hypothyroidism, incontinence, kyphoscoliosis idiopathic, major depressive disorder, mixed receptive expressive language disorder, neurofibromatosis, neuropathic pain, non-ambulatory, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, other reduction deformities of the brain, paresis of the legs, patent ductus arteriosus, pseudobulbar palsy, renal insufficiency, seizure disorder, scoliosis, spasmodic torticollis, spasticity, spinal meningitis, stroke, static encephalopathy, and vision impairment.
     
     Comment: In 2021 Ride On St. Louis participated in a one-time collaborative program serving high-risk and vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program service utilized virtual technology for distanced services, thus allowing for an increased number of participants. Due to the lifting of quarantine regulations, this program was not renewed for 2022, which reflects the decline in participants served. (During the relocation of our center due to recurrent flooding, the Ride On St. Louis board of directors has strategically reduced services and or programs, in general, to allow staff who have multiple duties and roles in development, fundraising, equine and program delivery, the time required to plan and implement a projected five-year capital campaign project.)

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Ride On St. Louis has relationships through research efforts, programming, education and outreach program partnerships with the exceptional institutions of Washington University School of Medicine Program in Occupational Therapy, Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Exercise Science Studies, Research Center for Human Animal Interaction, Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine, St. Louis Children’s Hospital Teen Outreach Program, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Parish and School, Maryville University, St. Louis University, the St. Louis County Police Athletic League, Pony Bird residential care facility, and other organized groups. Staff and equine ambassadors present topics of equine-assisted services through visits to schools, businesses, community events and other institutes to educate and inspire passions for horses, equine-assisted services, and helping others.
     
     Ride On St. Louis is a hosting site for a local parish school immersive faith and service activity. Through this collaboration Ride On St. Louis gives students preparing for their confirmation into the Catholic Church, an important opportunity to engage in their communities through education, volunteering and discovery. All youth have strengths and can contribute positively. Their time at Ride On St. Louis engages students emotionally, cognitively and physically and inspires them to seek out projects and causes they are passionate about. Through our participation we foster positive youth development to involve young people within their communities, schools, organizations, peer groups, and families in a manner that recognizes, utilizes, and enhances youths’ strengths. This outreach promotes positive outcomes by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and adding to the support needed to build on character and values.
     
     Ride On St. Louis partners with the St. Louis County Police Athletic League (PAL) and members of the police department in youth character-building activities to strengthen police-community relations and deter children from becoming involved in criminal activity. Our equine-assisted activities focus on exercise, enrichment and education in the equine environment with children ages 6-18 in St. Louis County.
     
     Ride On St. Louis offers volunteer opportunities for all ages and abilities, for individuals, groups, scout troops, businesses, etc. Academic students volunteer to fulfill community service projects, undergraduate experiential studies, and graduate practicums. Program volunteers who assist during sessions may receive 21+ hours of free educational training in safety and confidentiality, horsemanship and or disability best practices through Ride On St. Louis’s specific training courses. No-cost training sessions may include Program Volunteer Training, Leader Trainings I-IV, Advanced Leader Training, and Equine Caretaking Basics. Those interested may also observe and assist (if appropriate) during visits from the veterinarian, chiropractor, body worker, dentist, farrier and other equine professionals. Additional opportunities to observe or shadow equine assisted services and or equine specialized care visits may be scheduled.
     
     All offerings and activities are scheduled and documented.

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

Private Residence in Cedar Hill

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Equine Assisted Services (EAS)

2022 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 1	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	1	0	1
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	3	0	3
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	0	0	0
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	4	0	4
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works	0	1
Number of days per week each horse works	0	7
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	30	0	30
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week	0	4	0	4
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility	0	7
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility	0	52
	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client	5 Years	3 Years

Additional explanation: In 2021 Ride On St. Louis participated in a one-time collaborative program serving high-risk and vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program service utilized virtual technology for distanced services, thus allowing for an increased number of participants. Due to the lifting of quarantine regulations, this program was not renewed for 2022, which reflects the decline in participants served. (During the relocation of our center due to recurrent flooding, the Ride On St. Louis board of directors has strategically reduced services and or programs, in general, to allow staff who have multiple duties and roles in development, fundraising, equine and program delivery, the time required to plan and implement a projected five-year capital campaign project.)

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

Our organization acquires horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Donation  
    Lease  
    Purchase/Adoption from Owner  

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    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

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

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
    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
    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
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival and/or prior to offsite 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
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

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:   10 to 20 days

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
    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:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine annually and kept with the equine's health records
    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:
Prior to arrival at the facility a PPE, chip scan, and Coggins are performed. Prior to or following arrival, needed vaccinations are delivered in accordance with state and regional requirements and fecal test and or de-worming drugs are administered if recommended by our vet.
     
     Each horse in our care is evaluated for weight-carrying and workload limitations, regardless of the extent of their involvement in our programs. Some equine may or may not be ridden by qualified trainers and exercisers if it is suitable for that equine’s health, conditioning and training needs, but Ride On St. Louis does not currently offer or provide mounted programming for clients.
     
     Sidewalker training includes components that would incorporate a mounted horse, either by volunteers and or staff, with respect to the equine’s carry-weight limit. Each participate in training completes a liability and release waiver. We do not anticipate offering Sidewalker training with mounted components in 2023. Ride On St. Louis currently utilizes portions of our Sidewalker training and Sidewalker training manual to train unmounted safety and best practices for volunteers and staff in roles outside the scope of Sidewalker.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    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 after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

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

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must 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 should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, our organization must grant approval of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason prior to the equine being placed into the possession of such individual or organization, including being provided written notification of the name, address, and telephone number of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that the terms of our organization's agreement will be binding on any future individual or organization taking and/or in possession of the equine for any reason.
    The agreement states that re-homed equines cannot be bred
    The agreement states that our organization reserves the right to make scheduled visits

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

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

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

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 unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Horses generally remain at our facility and in our care while they are training, in service and retired. If a horse is being leased, he may return to his owner after he has been discharged from the program. Sometimes a horse may be permanently retired to retirement home Out2Pasture in Columbia, MO or enter into Ride On St. Louis's permanent retirement program Always Home. In rare cases, horses that our equine management team feel are no longer suited for equine-assisted services, but may be suited for other careers or activities, are re-homed to appropriate individuals and or organizations with vetted, qualified owners, caretakers, riders and or trainers (if applicable). New owners may sell the horse under circumstances outlined in our contract. Ride On St. Louis retains first right of refusal. The contract states that "the Buyer agrees that under no circumstances will Equine be sold or transferred to any slaughterhouse or person who sells animals to slaughter houses... [but] if Buyer ever chooses to sell, transfer or giveaway the Equine they will give Seller the first right of refusal to re-possess or purchase the Equine... If ownership is transferred, Buyer with notify Seller with the name, address, and telephone number of the new owner to which the Equine may be transferred... [and] subsequent owner will complete a copy of the Agreement, and... be bound by the terms".

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

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Private Residence in Cedar Hill
8498 Byrnesville Road Cedar Hill MO 63016
Contact: Marita Wassman
Contact's Phone: 636-464-3408
Contact's Email: marita@rideonstl.org
Currently operational

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

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     The Jefferson County Animal Control Center 7105 Shelter Road, Barnhart, MO 63012 no email address listed 636-797-5577

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:  1

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

     1. Marita Wassman, ATRI, CTRI

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Private Residence in Cedar Hill

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Jeffrey Knibb
Clinic Name: Westover Ridge Equine Partners
PO Box 1684
Saint Louis   MO   63011
Phone: 636-227-7880

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Grounds: Private Residence in Cedar Hill (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 6
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 6
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 7
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 9
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens: 2
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 0  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  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? 9-12
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 have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)

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
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas

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Equine Care: Private Residence in Cedar Hill (*Main) 2023 and 2022

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    Our organization utilizes a software application to maintain records
    The organization utilizes its own system 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 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

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
    Fecal testing is performed prior to the use of a de-wormer.
    A de-wormer is used without fecal testing

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

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the AAEP's Biosecurity Guidelines and/or the UC Davis Biosecurity Guidelines
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    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
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    Restricted access signs are posted at 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

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

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
    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
    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
    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
    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: Private Residence in Cedar Hill: *Main
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 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
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
    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
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Semi-annually
Smoke detectors are checked: Not at all/NA
Electrical Systems are checked: Annually
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Not at all/NA
Fire drills are conducted: Semi-annually
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: Annually

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

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $10K to $25K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990

Does the uploaded Pro Forma 990/990 represent ? No
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  7
Number of Board Members:  4  Number of Voting Board Members:  4

Board Compensation:
Is Board Chair compensated?  No  Is Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  Yes
If yes, provide the name, title and responsibility of each VOTING Board member who is compensated:
Vice President of the Board of Directors also serves as CEO and is a PATH Intl. Credentialed Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Mentor. She is not compensated for her duties as a board member, but is compensated for her staff position.

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.
CEO and Co-Founder is the parent of Grant Manager/Equine Trainer. Only one member sits on the Board of Directors, and votes are not cast on matters that may be viewed as a conflict of interest. The center began as a small homegrown operation in 1998 and both family members have been active and instrumental in its establishment forward.

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? 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:  Private facility, no licenses required. Ride On St. Louis is a 2023 Member Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (Premier Accredited Center, 2007-Gentrify at new location) and BBB accredited A+ nonprofit that achieves the 20 Standards of Charitable Accountability.

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

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):  Marita Wassman, CEO
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  2  Part-Time:  3  Volunteers:  120
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
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    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
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    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
    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 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 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.
Regarding "Management"; Every volunteer receives training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific. Not every volunteer receives training that includes horse handling or horse identification because many volunteer job descriptions (and their subsequent activities) strictly prohibit the handling of and or interaction with the center's equines in any way. With respect to time, talents and needs, volunteer training is specific to duties and job descriptions. Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a confidentiality agreement.
     
     Regarding "Governance"; In addition to those listed above the following documents are also available on our website and as requested: Notice of Privacy Practices, Internet Privacy Policy, and Confidentiality Policy.