MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
The mission of NMET is to harness the healing powers of horses improve lives.
Northern Michigan Equine Therapy (NMET) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit outpatient rehabilitation facility dedicated to equine assisted therapy using the healing nature of a horse as a therapeutic tool to enhance independence, self-confidence, and quality of life of our clients.

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

Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
2024 NMET Goals
     
     To maintain safety and quality of care of both horses and humans
     Maintain the ability to offer therapy scholarships to all in need.
     Support the people who make NMET successful
     
     Clients:
     Maintain client numbers or add client numbers if staffed appropriately
     Maintain Scholarships ($25-30,000)- Completed - $35,000 therapy scholarships awarded
     Operations:
     Update website language, pictures, numbers and horses - Completed
     Update registration packets - Completed
     Update scholarship application - Completed
     New data collection pre/post HorseSense® survey numbers - Cont. to work on in 2025
     Add 1-2 year post HorseSense® quality of life/community involvement survey - Cont to work on in 2025
     Grants/Fundraisers
     Increase support ask from individual donors/foundations - Completed
     Increase donor base - Completed
     New Kentucky Derby Fundraiser at Lavender Hill Farms (May 4th) - Completed
     Continue SRNP - December 8, 2024 (depending on draft horses) - Completed
     Increase grant requests (minimum of 3 new options) - Completed
     Staff:
     Secure funding for Farm & Maintenance Hand ($30,000)- Completed
     Maintain current employee and happiness - Completed
     Add new board members - Completed
     Horses
     Maintain horses health and exercise program - Completed
     Help cover cost of horse care and feed ($30,000.00) - Completed
     New Horse for all programs ($10,000) - Completed
     Magna Wave ($6,000) - Move to 2025 goals
     Farm:
     New hay storage building - $180,000.00 - Move to 2025 Goals
     New fencing for grass pastures - $24,000.00 (Breakdown - $12,000.00 Adele pasture, $6,000 Tank pasture, $6,000.00 Coin pasture) - Completed
     Fertilizer for maintaining grass pastures - get rid of weeds - Cont in 2025
     
     Technology/Marketing:
     Continue social media posts 2 week - completed
     Continue monthly newsletter - completed
     Maintain all media support programs (zoom, mailchimp, quickbooks etc) - Completed
     
     
     
     2025 NMET Goals
     
     To maintain safety and quality of care for both horses and humans
     Maintain the ability to offer therapy scholarships to all in need.
     Support the people who make NMET successful and their well-being
     
     Clients:
     Maintain client numbers or add client numbers if staffed appropriately
     Maintain Scholarships ($35,000)
     Operations:
     Update website language, pictures, numbers and horses
     Update registration packets
     Update scholarship application
     New data collection pre/post HorseSense® survey numbers
     Add 1-2 year post HorseSense® quality of life/community involvement survey.
     Grants/Fundraisers
     Maintain support ask from individual donors/foundations
     Increase donor base
     Kentucky Derby Fundraiser at Lavender Hill Farms
     Continue SRNP - (depending on draft horses)
     Maintain and prioritize (time/funds) grant requests
     Staff:
     Maintain current employee and happiness
     Continuing Education Opportunities
     Horses
     Maintain horses health and exercise program
     Help cover cost of horse care and feed ($30,000.00)
     Magna Wave ($6,000)
     Horse Vacuum ($700)
     Farm:
     New hay storage building - $180,000.00
     New Tack and Equipment Area ($15,000)
     Continue fencing project for grass pastures - $10,000.00
     Fertilizer for maintaining grass pastures - get rid of weeds
     Technology/Marketing:
     Continue social media - hire assistance?
     Continue monthly newsletter
     Maintain all media support programs (zoom, mailchimp, quickbooks etc)


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

Northern Michigan Equine Therapy (NMET) takes pride in quality of care for our horses and humans that enter our facility. NMET guarantees the interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions and all equines in the care of the organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times, or at least twice daily; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines.
     
     Northern Michigan Equine Therapy abides by all guideline stated below:
     
     Our Programs and activities involving all human-equine interactions always consider the comfort and dignity of the equine as paramount and promote the utmost respect for the equine as a sentient partner and not as a commodity or inanimate object.
     
     • Our programs and activities are designed to not cause distress, to not force an equine to exhibit unnatural behavior, and to be safe for both the equines and the humans.
     
     • Our programs and activities respect and protect all aspects of the individual welfare of the equines involved, including the appropriate portrayal and involvement of the equines depending on temperament.
     
     • Our programs and activities are always be conducted in a careful manner that minimizes the impact on the equines and their environment and supervised by personnel who are appropriately trained and have the authority to remove an equine from participation upon signs of stress. A contingency and first aid plan is in place in the event of an unforeseen emergency.
     
     • Our organization has a written policy as to how equines are selected for participation, how each equine in each program is continuously monitored for stress and well-being, what mechanisms are in place to allow the equines to 'opt out' of the activity, how safety is managed and maintained, and how each program is consistent with the organizations' mission.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
    Personal Development Learning

2: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Northern Michigan Equine Therapy

     1 Courtney Sumpter

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Northern Michigan Equine Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Courtney Sumpter, M.S., OTR/L, Executive Director and Occupational Therapist,
Masters (M.S) Occupational Therapy - Western Michigan University, Level One Therapist - American Hippotherapy Association, Certified Equine Specialist - EAGALA, ASSIST Trained - Suicide prevention, EAGALA Certified Equine Specialist,
Meets all NMET equine requirements - Passed Riding stills test, NMET Certified Equine Specialist, Currently riding First Level Dressage - Trainer Maryal Barnett. All Occupational Therapy sessions are completed with therapist and an NMET certified equine specialist - horse handler, sidewaker, and equine support staff

     2 Jennifer Lorence

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Northern Michigan Equine Therapy

         RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Personal Development Learning

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Jennifer Lorence, HorseSense® Facilitator and Educator, joined the NMET team in Spring of 2023. After starting her teaching career in the city of Detroit, Jenn returned to Wayne State University and earned her Master's Degree in Special Education (with an emphasis in individuals with Cognitive Impairment). After teaching special education to students in Kindergarten-eighth grade, Jenn joined a team at Children's Hospital of Michigan's Program for children with Traumatic Brain Injuries. In this role, she supported students ages 1 to 18 with their rehabilitation and transition back to school. Jenn shifted back to the school setting as an assistant principal in a school in Taylor, MI. After more graduate work at Eastern Michigan University in Administration and Special Education Supervision, Jenn began supervising special education programming for 10 schools in Detroit. Jenn is now the Coordinator of Special Education with Petoskey Public Schools.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     NMET programs are focused on horses healing humans through equine therapy:
     
     NMET OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (HIPPOTHERAPY)
     Retraining the brain about rhythm and movement
     
     A horse is a powerful physical therapy tool. Its natural movement assists those with movement dysfunction and helps strengthen the mind/body connection, and provides sensory input for individuals with sensory processing disorders.
     
     Equine-assisted occupational therapy (hippotherapy) uses the natural movement of the horse as a therapeutic tool. Our occupational therapist partners with the client’s physician to develop a detailed plan. These goals are documented and reassessed after each session. A therapy horse is chosen specifically for their particular movements to match the client’s goals.
     
     After a traumatic brain injury, the rhythmical movement of the horse helps to rewire neural pathways for better communication between the brain, spine and muscles — increasing mobility, independence and the opportunity for a greater quality of life. This might look like gaining or regaining the ability to walk, having greater core strength to sit upright, or being better able to verbalize and communicate.
     
     NMET SELF DEVELOPMENT HorseSense® Program
     Healing invisible scars
     
     NMET provides a unique opportunity to experience the healing nature of a horse in a safe, noncompetitive and nonjudgmental setting. Through hands-on therapy sessions, clients are surrounded in an environment that radiates calmness, values the hard work that comes with horses, and provides a literal and mental breath of fresh air.
     
     A horse mirrors emotions, reads nonverbal cues and reacts to the body language of humans. When these equine instincts are professionally incorporated as a self development therapy tool, the horse-human connection becomes a powerful healing force, helping clients to realize their own self-worth and increases self-awareness of body language and communication skills.
     
     NMET AT-RISK YOUTH THERAPY
     Horses don't judge
     
     At-Risk Youth (ARY): Horses have an extraordinary ability to read body language and mirror the inner struggles of our youth. HorseeSense is a powerful way of helping these young people find their internal controls and ability to manage difficult feelings and challenging situations while working with horses on the ground under the guidance of a HorseSense Facilitator.
     
     The transformation at-risk youth experience working with horses is profoundly life-changing. Regardless of what happens outside NMET’s facility, when the client is here, the horse will not judge. You can be “you" and this is a space where

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     NMET welcomes school field trips and community groups. During the summer months we hold a horsemanship camp for youth. We also host professional development and leadership workshops for businesses, non-profits, and healthcare workers, in addition to clinics and seminars. Our Executive Director, Courtney Sumpter has been repeat invited to lecture on her work and the value of Equine Assisted Therapy in the Occupational Therapy field at Western Michigan University.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has made equines available for research studies or medical training.
Please explain where and for what purpose equines are/were provided to use in research or medical training. 
     NMET had a unique medical case with a rescue (pregnant mare rescued) filly who was born on at our facility with a very rare medical condition of a detected ureter that required a CT scan and surgery at Michigan State University and was successful. We keep in close contact with Vets at MSU so they are able to follow her progress and are given permission to use this case as education in medical training as a case study.
     NMET also provides educational opportunities for students at the college level for Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists. Specifically at Western Michigan University and Michigan State University.

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

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

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by seizure or by abandonment
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are not taken on trial
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   Up to 10 days

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

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:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually by the veterinarian
    Vaccinations are administered at least annually
    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 the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden at least annually
    Our organization maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

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


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

POLICIES: BREEDING

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

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

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

The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
    Veterinarian
    Veterinary student under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
We defer to our trusted team of veterinarians to advise us on the most humane course of action when it comes the care, and choices for our horses including euthanasia procedures.

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

View Re-homing Agreement
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    All potential adopters/purchasers complete a written contract which constitutes the agreement between our organization and the new owner
    Our organization will only re-home an equine to a location where another equine resides
    Potential adopters/purchasers must visit our organization and be observed with the equine on site
    Our organization conducts a site visit of the adopter/purchaser's facility before the transfer of the equine to the adopter/purchaser's facility

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    The organization will accept financial responsibility for equines in the current care of the organization that need to be retired or are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization if all alternatives have been explored to find the equine an appropriate placement and space is not available for the equine to remain at the organization.

The uploaded Re-homing agreement includes the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) statements:
    The agreement reflects that any individual or organization in possession of the equine as of the date of the agreement and any time thereafter is bound to not sell the equine at auction for slaughter or allow the equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that will cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter.
    The agreement states that should the adopter decide to re-home the equine, the adopter must grant the organization first right of refusal prior to the equine being placed into the possession of any individual or organization intending to take possession of the equine for any reason.

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:
$201 to $500

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
The intent of our organization to acquire horses to join our team of therapy horses, and remain under our care until retirement which they will remain in our loving care for their lifetime if a fit retirement home is not available. We throughly vet any prospective adoptee/purchasers to make sure the re-home is in the best interest of the horse.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

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

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1

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Northern Michigan Equine Therapy
5025 Church Road Boyne City MI 49712
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 7
Total number of horses at this facility NOT INCLUDING those counted above: 8
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 20

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.
     Charlevoix Area Humane Society 231-582-6774 614 Beardsley St. Boyne City, MI 49712 pets@charlevoixhumane.org

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. Courtney Sumpter
     2. Jennifer Lorence

Horses not associated with NMET are privately owned. NMET leases the facility owned by the Executive Director and her husband.

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Grounds: Northern Michigan Equine Therapy (*Main) Currently operational This section is required.
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 32
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 5
Pastures: 7  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 4
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 2  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1
































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

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the barn/structure(s) or exclusively assigned shelter locations where they are separated from other horses with a barrier?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled or restricted to these sheltered exclusive shelter locations? 0-3;
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Are stalls/shelters kept in good repair, with adequate ceiling height, and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    
Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

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

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

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Northern Michigan Equine Therapy (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    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 the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in groups
    Staff and/or volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a secure area

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

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

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

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

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

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is removed from the facility - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Quarantine areas, such as stalls, aisle ways, paddocks, and common areas, are cleaned (and needed, disinfected) after conclusion of the quarantine.
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines

Additional information on biosecurity:
Equines are fed in a group setting and grain bags are utilized to provide individualized feed specific to each horse. 


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

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall/shelter location each day
    Name plates are located on the stall/shelter location
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits 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 cleaned weekly
    Tack is cleaned only when needed
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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

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

Equine Transportation: 2= Onsite: 1 (1 + 0) + Offsite: 1
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $35K to $50K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Review
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990-EZ
View the IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990

Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  5
Number of Board Members:  7  Number of Voting Board Members:  7

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  Yes  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No

Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No
If yes, provide the name, title and responsibility of each VOTING Board member who is compensated:
Courtney Sumpter - Executive Director is the only member of the board that is compensated. There is a current Conflict of Interest Policy signed and agreed upon with all board members. Current 2023 and past 6 years recommended salary by the full board and board president (excluding Executive Director - Courtney Sumpter) Is $60,000.00. Courtney Sumpter our Executive Director has never taken full pay (max $46,105.97 in 2022) as she likes to make sure the horses are always cared for first before receiving her compensation for her dedicated work. We are happy to provide all board minutes discussing pay/compensation and conflict of interest policy.

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

Board/Staff Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board and/or Staff member, and the name of the related organization.
The Executive Director and her husband 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:  At this time no licenses are required at the local, state or federal level.

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

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

Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Courtney Sumpter
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  1  Part-Time:  5  Volunteers:  45
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook ((available either online or in print) 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
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Volunteers required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Volunteers are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Volunteers are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers carry current health insurance
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Volunteers are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Volunteers receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Volunteers are assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook (available either online or in print) 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.
Staff will be updated on website by end of January 2025 and our part time farm hand did not want to be on the website.