Creating a sanctuary for horses & humans
AboutUs
While it is widely understood that horses offer incredible healing, it is also no secret that the costs associated with running equine-centered programs are very high. Overhead costs including animal care, feed, facilities, and equipment are significantly higher than an in-office clinician, coach, or therapist. Because of this, many people are unable to access these important services. The Evolution Foundation aims to change this.
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But our commitment to wellness does not just extend to our human participants. Equi Evolution offers a safe space for rescues and retired horses to live a peaceful and authentic life. Because our horses come from rescue backgrounds. many of them have special needs in terms of management and medical care. This only adds to the costs of caring for our incredible team.
Established to increase opportunities for everyone to participate in therapeutic equine related activities; The Evolution Foundation works to secure funding through donations, corporate sponsorship, and other fundraising efforts to help make this possible.
Mission
Our mission is to help support access to Equine-Facilitated Learning & Wellness (EFL) programs to improve mental health in our community, increase community awareness and education surrounding the power of Equine-Assisted Activities & Therapies (EAAT) and equine management practices surrounding animal welfare, and support rescue efforts offering horses safety and respite from abuse and neglect. We believe that everyone deserves an evolution and the opportunity to live a full and happy life.
EVERYONE deserves an EVOLUTION
Join our Board
We are actively seeking Board Members to join our team and help our foundation grow. If you have a passion for helping others find joy and meaning in life, understand the importance of mental health in terms of overall wellness, and believe in the healing power of animals and nature we'd love to talk!
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We value the uniqueness and personal experiences/background of each and every individual. If this is a mission that speaks to your heart, please contact us to learn more bout how you can help.
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EquiEvolutionFoundation@gmail.com
for more information.
Volunteer
The Evolution Foundation runs a variety of fundraisers throughout the year. We are always looking for volunteers to help organize and set-up our fundraising events, build community connections, and spread the word about the work of our organization. If you are interested in volunteering with us please contact us.
Say Hello to our Board of Directors
Ruthanne Hawkins
Chairman
Ruthanne is an executive assistant, reiki practitioner, animal communicator, and horse lover extreme. As a former participant in the Equi Evolution program, she found significant peace from her work with the horses and has fully immersed herself into the world of equine-facilitated learning and animal advocacy and welfare.
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“I never imagined the connections between horses and humans would be so intense and fulfilling. That connection is the drive that
has led me to where I am today.”
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She is committed to helping improve access to equine-centered wellness programs and improving welfare efforts around the world. Her passion and love for this work and the horses is evident from the moment you meet her.
Farrar Blanchard
Board Member
Bio Coming Soon!
Shannon Gauthier
Board Member
Shannon has 40+ years in the horse industry. She is a MA licensed instructor and owner of Wee Bits & Blazes Farm in Rehoboth. Lover of all breeds the farm currently has a Mustang, a German Riding Pony, an OTTB, an APHA, and a mixed breed lovingly known as a HalfSaddleWaffle.
Shannon spent 8+ years in the Massachusetts 4H program as a volunteer, parent, and former member as well as 3 years as a parent volunteer with the United States Pony Club. But her most important equine job is as the Mom and support system for a USEA Training Level Eventer.
A Marketing Specialist for a Healthcare IT company, she holds a Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications from Saint Bonaventure University. She is also a Marketing Consultant for a hybrid CPA/Financial Planning firm. Before her career in Marketing Shannon was a Preschool Teacher and Education Liaison in the public school system.