MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Rose of Sharon Equestrian School is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities by drawing upon the therapeutic potential of the human horse bond to facilitate change, growth, and healing.

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 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:
I. Statement of Goals and Accomplishments:
     Rose of Sharon Equestrian School (ROSES) in partnership with second and third career horses is embarking on its 23rd year of providing equine-assisted services to some of the most marginalized and medically fragile individuals in the Baltimore metropolitan area. Through mutually beneficial collaborations with special education schools, continuing care facilities, pediatric hospitals, and therapists providing outpatient hippotherapy services, ROSES has continued to increase the number of individuals it has been able to serve. Yet, like many other programs, ROSES maintains an ever-growing waiting list. ROSES seeks to meet the demand for services by adding additional instructors, therapists, programs, and support staff needed to reach and sustain the capacity of the organization.
     
     Goals:
      Mobile Mini Project: transport miniature horses and instructors/therapists to people and places who cannot come to the ROSES’ campus. We have a fully outfitted equine-accessible van complete with sturdy portable stall crafted by American Stalls. We also have a waiting list of schools, hospitals, and other agencies seeking this service. The Mobile Mini Project provides a unique opportunity for a high-visibility, corporate sponsorship. We are pursuing potential candidates for this high-value opportunity.
      Donor Communication: improve contact with our vested and new donors a minimum of four times per year to keep them apprised as to how their investments are allowing the program to expand its capacity. ROSES benefitted from the extreme generosity of CPI Productions in the creation of a short film demonstrating the power of horses to change the lives of people with disabilities for the better. The value of this production is worth over $10,000 and the quality of the finished product has allowed us to enter the Equus Film Festival for 2024. We held a soft screening of the film to rave reviews and plan to continue to utilize such events to encourage current and future donors to invest in ROSES.
      Expand Capacity: double the number of students served per week by the end of 2024, contingent upon additional staff (both human and equine). ROSES is in partnership with Rein Remedy, LLC, an independent occupational therapy practice that is steadily increasing the number of pediatric clients receiving services. ROSES is also involved with a countywide initiative to develop dementia-friendly programs for individuals living with this challenge along with their care providers.
      Board Development: add a minimum of five new members to ROSES’ Board of Directors by the end of 2024. Current board members will exploring their professional and personnel networks for potential candidates.
     
     Areas of concern:
      Increase professional staff: hire at minimum two new professional staff members by the end of 2024. Challenge: Funding for salaries is rarely a chosen initiative for the majority of grant-making foundations and organizations
     
     Resources:
     ROSES provides experiential learning opportunities and hippotherapy services for individuals to safely interact with horses in the naturally stimulating environment of an ADA-compliant horse stable and all-season therapeutic riding arena. The meticulously maintained facility is surrounded by verdant farmland and state-owned parkland.
     
     ROSES’ personnel bring a wealth of experience from a broad range of professions: special education, occupational and speech therapy, recreational therapy, health care administration and accreditation, construction management, and perhaps most importantly, equine husbandry and environmental stewardship.
     
     We diversify our development strategies so that the organization is not reliant on a single source of funding. As a non-profit, social benefit organization, ROSES has sustained and grown its program through charitable donations and in-kind contributions of individuals, corporate citizens, our board of directors, private foundations, minimal fees for service, and community fund-raising (and friend-raising) events. We have a solid reputation in the community, bringing the healing power of horses into the lives of those managing disabilities and other extenuating circumstances since 2001.

Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the 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.
     II. Statement on Human-Equine Interactions:
     Our first horse, Merlin, joined ROSES in 1998. It has been in our organization’s DNA to remain committed to the well-being of our equine partners even when they could no longer be ridden. We believed, as long as our horses were not a danger to themselves, each other, or our volunteers and participants, they would have a home with us. We could not, after years of relying on our horses’ sentience as vital component of the profound effect they had on our participants, suddenly dismiss that same sentience as non-existent because they could no longer support a rider. The horses, beginning with Merlin, taught us that our focus, with them, as well as our students, needed to be on what their capabilities were, NOT what they could no longer do. As Merlin, and others who followed, aged out of being comfortably ridden, ROSES expanded the groundwork and associated horsemanship that was required for true understanding and trust to develop. The validation of that perspective came through reports from parents, teachers, and other care-providers that participants actually benefitted as much, if not more, from working with the horses on the ground.
     
     The power of non-verbal communication expressed by the horses daily enhances our ability to work effectively with our students who have autism as well those who have dementia. Because everyone at ROSES staff, volunteers, participants, family members, and casual visitors are taught to sense and respond, our horses feel free to express themselves, as they understand they will be ‘heard’. Our horses express themselves subtly and they are listened to and respected. They have varying personalities and temperaments and have ‘choice’ to engage or withdraw from interactions with humans.
     
     A staff member dually certified by PATH International as both a Therapeutic Riding Instructor and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning judiciously monitors all interactions. A trained volunteer whose sole responsibility is to the horse also aids each horse involved in a session. Each participant is assigned one or more persons, as well, to make certain that all interactions with our horses are positive and educational. The number of participants engaging with any one horse at a time is kept to a minimum.
     
     Our horses have designated ‘time-off’ every day, as well as extended time over the weekend. During time off, they have access to other equines, pasture and/or hay, and clean water that is checked and changed multiple times a day. ROSES works with an NIH-trained scientist advising us on optimal equine-nutrition for each horse. We have long-standing relationships with our farrier, veterinarian and dentist, as well as practitioners providing alternative equine therapies. Our horses are evaluated monthly throughout the year by a trainer who believes in conditioning a horse by training for optimal balance from the inside out. In other words, the stability of the spine is the foundation to all that follows, physically, emotionally, and psychologically. That training takes place under saddle for some horses and on the ground for others.
     
     ROSES’ veterinarian is available to address equine emergencies with a response time of 20 to 30 minutes in most cases. Participants must complete health history and consent to emergency medical treatment forms to include medications and any other considerations. Several staff members are First Aid and CPR certified. ROSES maintains both human and horse first aid kits to address unforeseen incidents. ROSES will continue to host site visits for local first responders and volunteer fire departments serving its locale.


Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic Mounted Services
    Therapeutic Unmounted Services
    Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

2: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.

     1. Jessica Jane Rilee

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.

         RELATIONSHIP: Independent Contractor

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Jessica J. Rilee, OTD, OTR/L, Nova Southeastern University
AHCB Certified Therapist, American Hippotherapy Association
PATH Intl. Registered Therapist
PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

     2. Joan Marie Twining

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Master of Science in Special Education, Johns Hopkins University
Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, PATH International
Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, PATH International
Dementia Care Specialist, Crisis Prevention Institute

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Rose of Sharon Equestrian School (ROSES) provides equine-assisted services for individuals of all ages who have disabilities or other extenuating circumstances adversely affecting their quality of life.
     The School's programs address the needs of the novice and instruction is intended to develop skills in basic horsemanship and stable management. ROSES also provides equine facilitated learning for students with learning disabilities or who are otherwise at-risk of academic failure. While the content of our program focuses on horses, the benefit of involvement reaches well beyond the barn. Parents and participants report positive growth in the areas of self-confidence and social interaction, emotional and psychological well-being, physical strength and stability, as well as improvement in schoolwork and family relationships. Rose of Sharon Equestrian School partners with licensed therapists to provide farm-based occupational therapy and hippotherapy.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Rose of Sharon Equestrian School (ROSES) provides programs for children, youth, and adults with disabilities as well as seniors with dementia. ROSES has a mobile unit which travels to schools, hospitals, continuing care facilities, and other agencies to educate and enhance the lives of others through the benefit of the human-horse bond.
     
     ROSES is a Maryland Horse Discovery Center certified by the Maryland Horse Industry Board. ROSES hosts clinics and workshops expanding people's understanding of the horse's physical, emotional, and cognitive needs for sustaining successful relationships. ROSES maintains partnerships with local universities in order to provide internship opportunities for college students.
     
     ROSES is an approved Student Service Learning site for Baltimore County Public Schools. ROSES provides volunteer opportunities for retirees and others. ROSES provides workshops for boy- and girl- scouts seeking to earn badges in horsemanship and/or disabilities awareness. ROSES has also partnered with Eagle Scouts completing community-based projects. ROSES maintains a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan in effort to be a good steward of the environment where the horses live. The organization operates a state-of-the-art composting system and maintains relationships with master gardeners in the local area.

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

Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.

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Equine Assisted Services (EAS)

2023 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 2	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Horses/Equines participating in EAS programs at this facility
Number of horses/equines aged under 3	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 3-8	0	0	0	0
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	1	0	1
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	1	1	2
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	1	1	2
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	3	2	5
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works	3	2
Number of days per week each horse works	3	5
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	20	35		55
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week	10	10		20
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility	5	5
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility	42	42
	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client	5 Months	7 Months

Additional explanation: Our organization conducts programs throughout the year. Our programs are not strictly mounted or unmounted. We individualize our programs to meet the needs of our clientele on balance with the requirements of our horses' well-being. Our clientele range in age from 2 to 100. We have programs that range from one day, one-hour visits to annual contracts with a rotating list of students.

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1


5 Total number of horses involved with your programs on January 1, 2023
PLUS: Horse Intake during 2023
0 Donated
0 Lease
0 Purchase from Owner
0 Auction
0 Kill Pen/Feedlot
0 Surrendered
0 Seized
0 Abandoned
0 Returned
0 Transfer
0 Born at facility
0 Adoption from Rescue
0 Owner Owned
0 Total intakes
LESS: Horse Departure during 2023
0 Horses adopted/sold:
0 Horses transferred/returned
0 Horses deceased
0 Horses euthanized
0 Total departures
5 Number of horses involved with your programs on December 31, 2023
5 Total number of active horses (not retired) including
horses undergoing rehabilitation and/or retraining.
0 Total number of horses permanently retired.

Summary: 5 on 1/1/2023+ 0 Intakes - Departures = 5 on 12/31/2023

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

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

Our organization does not acquire horses/equines from the following source(s):
    Lease  
    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
    A health certificate signed by a veterinarian and dated no more than seven days prior to arrival is provided to our organization either prior to or upon arrival of the equine attesting to the health status of the equine

Not Checked:

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
    The owner is financially responsible for the shipping of the equine to and from the organization
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    During the trial period, the organization accepts financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care, up to a fixed amount agreed upon by the organization and the owner
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

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

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    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
    Coggins test
    Blood work other than Coggins
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

Not Checked:
    Physical examination by trained barn staff
    The equine is scanned to check for a microchip
    The equine is microchipped if the scan indicates that there is no microchip

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

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

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
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Not Checked:
    Jumping
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)

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
    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

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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

Not Checked:
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    No equines are ridden; not applicable

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

Not Checked:
    Our organization does not evaluate the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden
    No equines are ridden; not applicable

Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   Weekly

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.

Not Checked:
    One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, breeds equines
    One or more of the facilities where our organization conducts its programs, including foster facilities, are permitted to house stallions

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

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

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

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

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.

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:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

Not Checked:
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be sent to auction
    If a suitable home cannot be located within 12 months, the equine may be euthanized
    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.

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.
Contact: Joan Marie Twining
Contact's Phone: 410-592-2562
Contact's Email: Joan@RoseofSharonSchool.org
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 5
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 5
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 6

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.
     Baltimore County Department of Permits, Approvals and Inspections Baltimore County Department of Health, Bureau of Animal Control County Office Building 111 West Chesapeake Avenue, Room 11404 Tel: 410.887.3630 animalservices@baltimorecountymd.gov

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. Jessica Jane Rilee
     2. Joan Marie Twining

Additional information about this facility:
Everyone who participates, in any capacity, must sign our Barn Rules document which clearly states:

No Smoking ANYWHERE on the premises, indoors or out!

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Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Kim Hafner
Clinic Name: Equine Veterinary Associates
1926-1928 Jerry's Road
Street   MD   21154
Phone: 410-592-3131

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Overview: Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc. (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 8
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 0
Pastures: 5  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 2
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 1  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1

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 1 to 3 hours per day
    Equines are out 4 to 8 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
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have pastures where equines can graze on pasture grass
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    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
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

Not Checked:
    This facility does not have turnout areas
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    Barbed wire is used for fencing
    Electric fencing is used; electric wires or tape fence are visibly marked
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    The property owner, staff member or caretaker lives on the premises and ensures that public access is restricted and is responsible for the security of the facility and equines
    Equines are checked overnight
    By Appointment Only signs are posted.
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with a security system monitored by police or a professional service
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

Not Checked:
    A security guard is present at night
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The perimeter of the property is fully fenced

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc. (*Main) 2024 and 2023 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)

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to age and any health issues
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed in individual stalls
    Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Not Checked:
    Equines are fed in groups

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

Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each 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


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.

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Fly parasites
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    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
    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
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    All volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Hand sanitizers and footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    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

Not Checked:
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    A specific individual is 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
    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
    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
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines
    Equines are not quarantined on arrival.

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is piled in an area where equines are not located
    Manure piles are covered
    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 state and/or local authorities

Not Checked:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)

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

Not Checked:
    Photos are located on the stall
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Equine photos and profiles are available on the website
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not 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 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
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

Not Checked:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Bridles are shared
    Bits are shared
    Blankets are shared
    Sheets are shared
    Turnout apparel is shared
     Halters are shared
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is cleaned weekly
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    No equines are ridden; not applicable.

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Emergency Preparedness: Rose of Sharon Equestrian School, Inc.: *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:
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    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

Not Checked:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)

The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    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

Not Checked:
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled

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

Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $100K to $500K
Equine Budget:   $50K to $100K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Compilation
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:  12
Number of Board Members:  11  Number of Voting Board Members:  11

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

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
One board member is the niece of the founder/executive director. There is no business relationship between the two individuals.

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? 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 own the facility where programs are conducted. The organization does not pay a lease fee, but is responsible for repair costs. The Executive Director does not serve as voting member of the Board.
     
     One board member is an Occupational Therapist providing services to medicaid clients at our organization. If any issues arise that pertain to this individual, the individual recuses herself from that portion of the board meeting and any subsequent voting regarding the issue that may take place.

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:  This organization meets or exceeds the published standards of the following:
     
     Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship Int'l Center (renewal 1/24)
     Maryland Department of Agriculture Stable License (renewal 6/24)
     Maryland Horse Industry Board Certified Horse Discovery Center (renewal 1/24)
     Baltimore County Department of Health Animal Services Division (renewal 7/24)
     Baltimore County Department of Permits Stable License (renewal 7/24)

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

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


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Joan Marie Twining
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  3  Part-Time:  3  Volunteers:  25
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 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;
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Not Checked:
    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
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    Staff and/or contractors are subject to Random Drug Screening

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    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
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    Every volunteer carries current health insurance
    Every volunteer is updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Every volunteer receives training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Every volunteer is assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization 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 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

Not Checked:
    Every volunteer has a written job description
    Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    Every volunteer is subject to Random Drug Screening

Additional explanation regarding governance, staffing and volunteer practices or further explanation of the answers above.
We are in the process of building a new website; some pages including the list of the board are currently out of date.