Equine aftercare nonprofits are poised to take a hit financially from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, even though horses in their care have been adopted out in record numbers. A plethora of fundraising events for aftercare organizations have been moved online or cancelled completely as health mandates have limited the number of people who can gather.
Multiple Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA)-accredited organizations have had to cancel events and their staff are concerned about how they will make up for the lost revenue. In addition, many donors are also experiencing financial constraints and may be reluctant to give at the levels they previously have. Organizations that offer grants to equine aftercare entities are also feeling the pinch of limited donations, reports Blood-Horse.
Second Stride, a Kentucky-based Thoroughbred rehoming organization, was unable to host their annual pre-Derby party in the spring and they have opted to not hold the in-person party in September, either, as safety protocols keep shifting. The organization now plans to host a virtual event around the Derby that offers a handicapping panel and an online auction.
Win Place Home, a California-based nonprofit, cancelled their spring event, which typically brings in about one-quarter of their yearly revenue. To make up for some of the lost revenue, Win Place Home will offer a week-long silent auction with videos featuring adoptable horses and special guests.
The amount of money nonprofits raise through fundraisers and events is part of what dictates the number of horses each organization can assist. With donations down, organizations may not be able to help as many horses. Surprisingly, aftercare organizations across the country have experienced adoption booms during the pandemic, and not in horses with unlimited second-career potential. Family horses, trail horses and those with limiting injuries were also adopted out in droves.
Interestingly, there has not been an uptick in the number of horses being retired from racing—yet. Though it's unclear what the future holds for equine aftercare, it will hopefully include more donations.
Read more at Blood-Horse.
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