MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center ("RTT") is a non profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enhancing health and wellness through equine-assisted services (EAS).

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
100% of our total programs and services are equine-related.
Our organization does not use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities
Number of facilities/locations where horses used in our programs are HOUSED AND CARED FOR or were HOUSED AND CARED FOR during 2022: 1

Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
Overarching Strategic Objectives
     Client-Centered Programs: Provide high quality and dynamic services to a broad range of clients in our community through diverse programming to meet a wide range of needs.
     Caring for our Horses: Provide superior care to our horses through top quality nutrition, training, handling and herd management.
     Financial Sustainability: Develop balance and diverse revenue streams to support RTT’s mission.
     Sharing our Story: Promote visibility and awareness of RTT’s impact, programs, and services through social media and public relations outreach (press releases, presentations, open farm days and exhibiting at local events).
     Supporting our Team: Provide a positive, caring and respectful environment that promotes life-long learning and professional growth for staff and volunteers.
     Stewardship of our Farm: Plan, develop and utilize RTT’s property in a fiscally prudent and environmentally sensitive manner.
     
     2022 Accomplishments--Riding To The Top was fully reopened for the entire year, for the first time since March of 2020.
     Clients
     • 258 Unique clients, a 33% Year over Year increase
     • 2,527 client visits at the farm
     • 3 Field Trips—2 on site at RTT; 1 remote visiting an area school
     • Geographic reach: 45 cities and towns; 7 counties
     • Ages 3-84
     • Completed final year of participants in NIH funded research study examining the physiological changes in children with autism participating in therapeutic riding or in a barn activity (control) group (4 groups of participants in our therapeutic riding group and 3 groups of participants in our control group). Publication of results anticipated in 2024.
     
     Horses
     • Herd size 16; ranging in age from 9 to 30+--14 of these horses are involved in riding, driving and/or unmounted lessons; two of our horses are retired from mounted work, but participate in our “Walking with Horses” program.
     • In 2022, we successfully integrated five new herd members for a net gain of one as four horses left the herd (two horses were returned to their owners per their lease agreements, one horse died of natural causes and one horse we have determined will be happier in a one-person type of setting and our Barn Manager has purchased him).
     • Active Volunteer Schooling and Body Work teams are overseen by our Equine Manager
     
     Staff, Volunteers and Center
     • Small, professionally credentialed paid full-time and part time staff (8 FTEs)
     • Average tenure of staff: 6+ years; range 1-22 years
     • Large, unpaid volunteer ‘staff’ of 184 individuals who contributed nearly 12,000 hours in 2022
     • PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center since 2000
     
     Farm and Property
     • 50+ acres in Windham, ME
     • Handicapped accessible facility with indoor arena; development of accessible trails on property
     • Solar array on arena rooftop to decrease carbon footprint
     • Addition in 2022 of a new shed to help more of our horses to be outside and moving around 24/7
     
     Sustainability
     • 30 years of service to our community
     • RTT had a healthy year in 2022 with strong support from individuals, businesses and foundations
     • RTT’s largest fundraiser, the Triple B, was back for the first time in-person and netted over $205,000, and other smaller fundraisers were also very successful
     • RTT receives no municipal, state or federal operating support
     
     For 30 years now, RTT has served children and adults with disabilities, while maintaining a healthy and happy herd of horses. We charge modest fees for services with the remainder of our operating budget made up of individual, corporate and foundation gifts (over 75% of our total budget comes from these sources). We have a dedicated staff who are knowledgeable and professional, and who are committed to RTT's mission.

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

12: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

     1. Cynde Putney

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Cynde is a PATH Intl. CTRI (2013). In addition, she is a horse owner and takes regular lessons. Cynde retired from her part-time schedule with RTT in May 2023 and is now available to sub when needed. Updated 5/31/23

     2. Jeanine Loubier

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Driving Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Jeanine is a PATH Intl. CTRI and Driving Level II Instructor. She is active primarily with our driving program but is available to teach mounted and unmounted activities as well. She is a life long horse person and brings a wealth of experience in working with both horses and people with disabilities to her work at RTT.

     3. Kate Jeton

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Kate is a life long horse woman who has competed in jumping and equitation. She is a PATH Intl. CTRI and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. She has a background in education and administration. When she works with our school groups she collaborates with the teacher(s) from each classroom.

     4. Kristin Meaney

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Kristin has a degree in Equine Management and Business and is PATH Intl. CTRI and Mentor. She is RTT's Equine Manager and oversees the health and fitness of our horses and supervises RTT's Volunteer Schooling Team.

     5. Lisa Messina

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Lisa is a PATH Intl. CTRI. She has a long history of horse ownership and was a long time volunteer at Riding To The Top before becoming certified in 2021. She also has a background as a BHP and worked for organizations serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

     6. Mackenzie Foss

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Mackenzie (Kenzie) will be a new graduate from the University of New Hampshire with a BS in Therapeutic Riding in May 2023. She is a PATH Intl. CTRI and works part time for RTT teaching therapeutic riding and unmounted activities.

     7. Mario Pascarelli

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Driving Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Mario is a retired teacher and is a PATH Intl. Level 1 Driving instructor. He is not presently teaching at RTT but remains active and available as needed.

     8. Marissa LaGassey

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Marissa is PATH Intl CTRI and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. In addition, she holds an education degree and is licensed in the state of Maine to teach secondary education (Math). She works full time teaching 9th grade mathematics at a local public school and is our Summer Camp Director.

     9. Marissa Stewart, DPT

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Marissa has a doctoral degree in physical therapy and is a PATH Intl. CTRI. In addition she holds an animal sciences bachelor's degree from UVM. She is a life long horse woman and combines her extensive knowledge of dressage, disabilities and working with people as a CTRI and therapist at RTT working under the supervision of Sarah Bronson, PT when doing therapy utilizing equine movement. As of November 2022, Marissa is on a leave of absence from employment.

     10. Sara Gagliarducci, OTR/L

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Sara is a PATH Intl. CTRI. She is a licensed OT in the state of Maine and she brings her skills and training as an Occupational Therapist to her therapeutic riding and unmounted horsemanship lessons at Riding To The Top. She works under the supervision of Sarah Bronson, PT (PATH Intl. Registered Therapist) and is working towards becoming a PATH Intl. Registered Therapist.

     11. Sarah Bronson, PT

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

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

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Sarah is a licensed physical therapist in the state of Maine and a PATH Intl. CTRI and Registered Therapist. She teaches therapeutic riding, equine assisted learning in collaboration with teachers from area school and physical therapy utilizing the movement of the horse.

     12. Tracy Sturtevant

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Tracy is a PATH Intl. CTRI and holds a degree in Special Education. At RTT she combines her love of horses and educating children (and adults) with disabilities. She teaches both mounted and unmounted lessons and is the lead instructor for our Barn Activity group.

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     At Riding To The Top we provide services to individuals who have a wide range of diagnoses that include, but are not limited to, cerebral palsy, brain injury, autism, learning disabilities, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Down syndrome and developmental delays.
     
     Typically over 250 people with disabilities, ages 3-85+ are served each year through individual and group lessons. Riding To The Top offers a variety of services for our clients depending on their individual needs. Services include therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning programs, therapeutic carriage driving and PT/OT services utilizing equine movement In 2022, we provided 2,527 client visits (258 individual clients) in-person at the farm and with remote field trips where we traveled to area schools.
     
     Therapeutic Horsemanship--Mounted (TR) and Unmounted (GW): Our TR/GW program is our largest program and serves children and adults of all ages. Activities include grooming, tacking and riding skills to help individuals improve their physical strength, cognitive and sequencing skills, and social interactions. For individuals who do not want to ride or are unable to ride, we offer unmounted ground work. We offer these services to individuals as well as groups from day programs and schools.
     
     Equine Assisted Learning (EAL): RTT provides in-person learning working closely with school educators on student goals and areas of study. RTT has developed learning modules that complement school goals and shares equine-related learning with students in conjunction with their teachers and ed techs. In 2022, RTT worked in-person with students from area schools, in conjunction with school educators who attend the sessions with their students.
     
     Therapeutic Carriage Driving (TCD): This program offers an option for clients who are unable to ride due to physical limitations or who may be fearful of heights. TCD offers clients an exciting activity where balance and visual-spatial relationships are challenged, while driving the horse from a cart. A PATH Intl. Certified Driving instructor and specially trained volunteers make up our driving teams. RTT’s Driving program became accredited by PATH Intl. in 2016 during our re-Accreditation site visit.
     
     Occupational and Physical Therapy services utilizing equine movement are provided to a small population of clients at RTT who benefit from the physical and sensory input of the horse's movement to assist in neuro-developmental skills.
     
     Between our lesson terms, we offer field trip experiences, staff and volunteer education related to EAS and equine related clinics that have benefit for our staff, horses and the general public. Educational offerings include:
     • PATH Intl. mentoring program for Instructors In Training;
     • Advanced program-specific volunteer trainings; and
     • Clinics on equine topics including Natural Horsemanship, Acupressure/Reiki, Masterson Energy Work and Driving.

Overview of our programs involved with providing community outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     We work to increase awareness about the benefits of EAS through community education, outreach and research opportunities such as:
     • Forums, fairs, conferences and open houses;
     • High School and College service learning programs;
     • College level internships;
     • Participation in NIH funded research on the effects of EAS;
     • Staff presentations at PATH Intl. conferences; and
     • Participation of RTT staff in volunteer roles with PATH Intl.
     
     In 2022, we continued our participation in a NIH funded research study looking at the physiological changes in children with Autism during therapeutic riding compared to a "barn" (control) group. We are thrilled to be working with Univ. of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Maine Medical Center Research Institute on this exciting study. The Maine site completed data collection in 2022 and we hope to be presenting with the Colorado site at the 2023 PATH Intl. Annual Conference on how Therapeutic Riding Centers can collaborate with Researchers to further the body of knowledge in the our industry.

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. 
     We hosted in 2022 a practicum for Veterinary Tech students that involved observation, taking vitals and techniques for bloodwork and vaccinations (venipuncture and placebo IM injections). Horses were monitored closely by RTT staff and veterinarians who were instructing the class and were rotated to limit the number of "shots" or venipunctures. Given the veterinarian shortage we feel that this continues to be an important collaboration for students who will be assisting our equine veterinarians in the coming years.

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

Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

---

Equine Assisted Services (EAS)

2022 EAS Operations - EAS Providers: 12	Mounted Only	Unmounted Only	Both Mounted & Unmounted	Total
Horses/Equines participating in EAS programs at this facility
Number of horses/equines aged 3-8	0	0	1	1
Number of horses/equines aged 9-14	0	0	1	1
Number of horses/equines aged 15-20	0	7		7
Number of horses/equines Over 20	0	2	8	10
Total number of horses/equines participating in EAS programs at this facility	0	9	10	19
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of hours per day each horse works	1	1
Number of days per week each horse works	5	2
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	142	71	45	258
Average number of clients (not lessons) participating in activities per week	60	6	10	76
	Mounted	Unmounted
Number of days per week programs are conducted at this facility	6	5
Number of weeks per year programs are conducted at this facility	41	41
	Mounted	Unmounted
Average wait list time for a client	4 Months	2 Months

Additional explanation: Our herd in 2022 included six horses who average 1-3 lessons per week (2 retirees, one horse who we decided to phase out of the program and two others who had a long onboarding process). The rest of our horses average 4-6 lessons per week. For unmounted work, we are capable of offering this 5 days/week but currently only have ground lessons 2 days/week. The majority of our herd works in either riding or driving lessons, with the occasional ground lesson. The number of clients is the number of clients served annually (some may ride year round, but many ride for only 7-14 weeks). If you look at our average workload of 4-6 lessons per week, it averages to 1 hour/week. In addition, many of our lessons are 30-45 minutes in duration, so this impacts the hours/week workload.

EQUINE CENSUS SUMMARY

Total Facilities: 1

POLICIES: ACQUISITION

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

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

Our organization will accept the following:
    Geldings
    Mares

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

Additional information about our acquisition policies and practices:
Riding To The Top is committed to offering equine-assisted services in a safe and nurturing environment for humans AND horses. As such, the characteristics of our horses are critical. Regardless of whether a prospective horse is a donation, free-lease or plans to be purchased by the organization, an adequate trial period is desired to ensure that the prospective equine will meet the needs of RTT, including specifically our programs’ and clients’ needs and that the horse is happy in the work and seems well suited for EAS. To assist in this decision making process, RTT utilizes our Trial Contract for Purchase/Lease, our Horse Profile form and our Equine Screening Assessment, to ensure the horse’s fit with RTT. In the case of a lease agreement or a donation, we actively encourage the owners to participate in the process, ensuring that they, too, are comfortable with the fit for their horse and our program’s needs.
     
     The Equine Manager takes the lead role in screening prospective horses and making a decision whether a horse is appropriate for a trial. Once the horse is on RTT property, all program staff are involved in assessing the horse’s suitability for programming at RTT. Final decisions re: acceptance of the horse for RTT programs and details of any lease/purchase/donation agreements are made by the Equine Manager with input from the Program Director, program staff and the Executive Director.

POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAININING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization requires the following with respect to the health status of the horse:
    A current Coggins
    Vaccination records that have been administered within the last 12 months
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, the owner is responsible for having vaccinations administered.
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization
    Equines are on trial for up to 30 days
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days
    Equines are on trial for 60 or more days
    The trial period may be reduced based on the equine's progress
    During the trial period, the organization accepts total financial responsibility for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    During the trial period, the owner/donor is financially responsible for the care of the equine, including board, feed, shoeing and any necessary veterinary care
    The trial period may be terminated by either the organization or the owner for any reason

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination by trained barn staff
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Fecal test
    De-worming

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

The typical length of quarantine is:   10 to 20 days

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Lunging
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Driving (Pulling a carriage)
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Photographs are taken of each equine monthly and kept with the equine's health records
    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
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

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


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

Additional information about our intake, assessment & training policies and practices:
In several of the sections above, we checked off seemingly contradictory statements. This is because our trial period agreement may be tailored to the individual horse/owner situation re: length of trial and RTT covering the costs of care versus the owner. This often depends on the horse's most recent work history and whether we anticipate needing a longer period of time to get a horse into shape for our programs.
     
     We also require that horses coming on trial have a current Lyme Test before coming to the farm and if it is positive, the owner is responsible for the cost of treatment.
     
     Pre-purchase exams are conducted on any horses being purchased by RTT. In addition, our veterinarian checks any new horses at some point during their trial period if they are going to be either purchased or accepted as a donation. For free-leases, we are more lenient with the timing of our veterinary check. Farrier and dental checks are scheduled as needed for horses on trial.
     
     We have a retired equine veterinarian who is on our Board who works with our Equine Manager and Equine Care Coordinator on at least a monthly basis, reviewing Body Condition Scores for our herd to help address their nutritional needs. We take photos annually of all horses, and for some who are being more closely monitored, we take monthly photographs.
     
     Lastly, schooling occurs 1-3 times per week depending on the horse and their needs. This may be a combination of ground and ridden work.

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian 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
    Euthanasia is done at the veterinarian's facility
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

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

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
In situations where a horse has chronic health issues that are painful or an acute situation arises (e.g. colic), consultation with our equine veterinarian will occur to discuss humane management of the horse considering pain and suffering, overall health and condition, potential for recovery, etc. In the event that pain and suffering will likely continue and/or treatment options are not prudent for the horse based on age, co-morbidities, etc., RTT will consider euthanasia in consultation with our veterinarian. In the event of a free-leased horse, this decision is made by the owner in conjunction with the veterinarian and RTT. At all times, RTT will defer to our veterinarian's recommendations re: euthanasia, including an otherwise healthy horse that is a danger to itself and/or other horses or humans.
     
     In the event that a horse has been transported for additional work up to a veterinary hospital, the horse may be euthanized at the hospital versus at the farm if it is determined that this is best for the horse.

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

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

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

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:
Over $1,500

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    Equines may be found suitable homes by our organization
    Equines may be returned to their owners
    In the case an equine is 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

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
Our placement of horses includes those who are ready for retirement from EAS or those horses who we have purchased and after a period of time (usually up to a year) we determine that they are not well suited for EAS. In the case of retirement we are committed to finding forever homes for horses who have worked so hard for our program. In this situation, we generally transfer ownership to the person who is taking over care, but on occasion, we have done this as a free lease arrangement. For horses that we have purchased, we most often will sell them to a suitable owner. In all cases, references are checked. We agree that a "free horse" is not free; however the vast majority of our placements have been to homes where the standard of care is very high and the individuals have the financial capacity to care for the adoptee and are well-known horse owners and well-known to the organization.

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

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

---

Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center
14 Lilac Dr. Windham ME 04062
Contact: Sarah E. Bronson
Contact's Phone: 207-892-2813
Contact's Email: sbronson@ridingtothetop.org
Currently operational

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

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.
     Maine State Animal Welfare Program. Contact info: 207-287-3846 or 1-877-269-9200; email: animal.welfare@maine.gov; Physical Address: Deering Building, 90 Blossom Ln., Augusta, ME 04330

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:  12

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

     1. Cynde Putney
     2. Jeanine Loubier
     3. Kate Jeton
     4. Kristin Meaney
     5. Lisa Messina
     6. Mackenzie Foss
     7. Mario Pascarelli
     8. Marissa LaGassey
     9. Marissa Stewart, DPT
     10. Sara Gagliarducci, OTR/L
     11. Sarah Bronson, PT
     12. Tracy Sturtevant


Additional information about this facility:
We try to have as many horses turned out 24/7 as possible so that they are able to remain in herds and move about freely. For those turn outs that do not have shelters, we stall these horses during extreme weather where shelter is required. Our Barn Manager works closely with our herd members to ensure safe herd dynamics (for horses and humans).

---

Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center

---

Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Rachel Flaherty
Clinic Name: Back Cove Equine Veterinary Services
PMB 1243
Portland   ME   04103
Phone: 207-232-4316

---

Grounds: Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center (*Main)
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 16
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 17
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 20
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 15
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 7
Pastures: 3  Paddocks/Pens: 8
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 2  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? 0-3;
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 9 to 15 hours per day
    Equines are out 16+ hours per day
    Equines are out 24/7
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in to feed
    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 natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

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

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
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights

---

Equine Care: Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center (*Main) 2023 and 2022

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Notebook or equivalent (technology not utilized)
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    Onsite computer with cloud-based backup storage system
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

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
    Equines are fed in groups
    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

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

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

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

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


Parasite Control: Our organization has the following worming protocols in place: (Check all that apply
    The protocol for each equine is determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Fecal testing is performed prior to the use of a de-wormer.

Fly/Insect Control: What remedies are used to control flies and insects?
    Fly parasites
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Premise Sprays/Insecticides
    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
    All staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    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
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    Shared equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines

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

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

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
    Saddles are shared
    Saddle pads are shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

---

Emergency Preparedness: Riding To The Top Therapeutic Riding Center: *Main
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    All staff/volunteers are briefed regularly on emergency preparedness/safety procedures
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    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: Quarterly
Electrical Systems are checked: Daily
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Quarterly
Fire drills are conducted: Semi-annually
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Quarterly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Quarterly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Annually

Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 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:  $500K to $1M
Equine Budget:   $50K to $100K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 12
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Review
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990

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


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  7
Number of Board Members:  9  Number of Voting Board Members:  9

Board Compensation:
Is Board Chair compensated?  No  Is Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No
Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? Yes
If yes, provide the name, title, responsibility and family/business relationship of each Board, Staff member and/or Program Participant.
One of our instructors is the daughter of the Executive Director. This is disclosed on our Annual Conflict of Interest statements submitted by all staff and board members. Additionally, we seek to have parent/client representation on our Board of Directors. We currently have one parent Board member who has two children who have participated in our programming. Again, this is disclosed on their Annual Conflict of Interest statement.

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.
One of our Board members is employed by one of the banks that we do business with. This is disclosed on their Annual Conflict of Interest statement.

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:  Riding To The Top has been PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center since 2000, meeting or exceeding all of PATH Intl's core administrative, mounted, unmounted, driving and facility standards. Our most recent Accreditation visit occurred in Dec. 2016 where we scored 100% on all applicable standards. PATH Intl. Accreditation visits were suspended in 2020. We are scheduled for our re-accreditation visit on June 2, 2023.

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

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):  Sarah Bronson, Executive Director
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  5  Part-Time:  13  Volunteers:  184
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 to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Every volunteer is required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Every volunteer is required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Every volunteer is required to sign a Photo Release
    Every volunteer provides parent/guardian information if applicable
    Every volunteer carries current health insurance
    Every volunteer has a written job description
    Every volunteer is evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Every volunteer is updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Every volunteer 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 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.
All employees must undergo a background check which includes state and federal criminal checks. All volunteers provide references as part of their application and must reveal if they have been convicted of any crimes. We have a link to Guidestar on our website which provides not only our most recent 990 and audited Financial Statements but additional information about our organization including Board members, Mission, Programs, etc. We are proud of our Platinum designation with Guidestar.