WESTPORT, CT – November 30, 2013 – The EQUUS Foundation is pleased to announce its new Messengers program to recognize organizations on its Equine Welfare Network that demonstrate a commitment to public transparency by their willingness to publish and make available critical data about their programs, horse care practices, and governance.
Organizations like Guidestar provide confidence to individuals and organizations that their donations are being well spent by ensuring that organizations claiming tax-exempt status are indeed classified tax-exempt by the IRS and by making general management, financial and program available to the public.
“The Messengers program goes a lot further,” said Lynn Coakley, EQUUS Foundation President. “We required detailed information about the care and use of horses from charities that are involved with horse rescue, rehabilitation, re-training, adoption, foster care and retirement and/or providing equine assisted therapies and activities to the public as part of our grant evaluation process.”
“Now this extensive body of information will be available to the public. It will not only provide vital information to individuals seeking information on the services provided by participating organizations but also the means for participating organizations to share their best practices.”
Why the Messenger Designation Is Important
The Messenger designation is not an “endorsement” of an organization’s policies and practices, but it does make a statement that the organization is willing to provide complete and timely information on their operations and services.
The EQUUS Foundation has awarded nearly $2.5 million in grants to over 500 equine charities and awarded over $275,000 in grants in 2013. Over 800 organizations participate on the Equine Welfare Network. Only organizations approved as Messengers by March 31, 2014 will be eligible to apply for grant awards in 2014.
The EQUUS Foundation also established a new Messenger Transparency Grant program. A minimum of $5,000 in Transparency Grants, ranging from $500 to $1,000, will be awarded by random draw in 2014 to organizations designated as Messengers as an additional reward.
CLICK HERE to learn more about our Messengers program.
About The EQUUS Foundation
The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, also known as Horse Charities of America, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, advancing the use of horses to enrich the lives of people in need and educating the public about the horse’s unique ability to empower, teach and heal. What started as a local effort is now a nationwide campaign on behalf of horses. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by providing financial support to horse-related charities across the United States; connecting a network of equine organizations to equine enthusiasts; providing scholarships to reward volunteer service on behalf of horses, and conducting information outreach to educate the public about horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, Website: www.equusfoundation.org.
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