June 2026 Newsletter

June 2026 Newsletter

A Message from Equest CEO, Eric Lindh

Dear Equest Community,

This month’s newsletter reminds me of the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” At Equest, every success story is made possible by a community of people who walk alongside our clients, families, horses, volunteers, and staff. The stories in this newsletter offer just a few examples of the remarkable things that can happen when we come together in support of one another Frances’ journey, alongside her therapy horse, is a powerful reminder of what is possible through the healing connection between horse and rider. Equally important is the dedicated team of instructors, therapists, volunteers, and family members who help make that progress possible every day. Likewise, our riders who competed in the Spring Horse Show and Special Olympics demonstrated incredible determination and pride, and were cheered on every step of the way by the Equest community We are also fortunate to have some of the best instructors in the equineassisted services industry. I encourage you to read about their recent accomplishments and new certifications. Their commitment to professional growth ensures that Equest continues to provide the highest quality programs and services for our clients To our volunteers and donors, thank you for your generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure. Your support makes our mission possible and inspires us daily. We know that meaningful change is never accomplished alone, and we are deeply grateful to have such a strong community that believes in the healing power of horses and the potential within every individual

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. With gratitude,

Our Mission

Equest enhances the lives of individuals with diverse needs through therapeutic activities with horses We serve clients ages two and up with physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities

Impact Story

Finding Strength in the Saddle: Frances' Story

For Peter and Blair Butler, life with their daughter Frances has included challenges they never expected. As their only child, Frances was deeply loved from the start, but it soon became clear that she wasn't reaching the same milestones as other children her age. Much of their time was spent in hospitals and therapies, searching for ways to help her thrive When they discovered Equest shortly after Frances' second birthday, everything changed.

"It was the first time I felt like we could take a breath," Peter recalls. "For the first time, there was a little bit of normalcy outside of the constant hospital visits."

Born with a condition that prevents her from walking or talking, Frances faces significant challenges. But at Equest, physical therapy gives her the opportunity to build strength, confidence, and connection The bond she shares with her horse, instructors, and therapists has become a powerful part of her growth

Since starting at Equest, Frances has become noticeably stronger, and that progress has carried into her daily life, school, and other therapies. Just as importantly, her confidence has grown.

"It gives Frances something she can get better at and invest in becoming a stronger, more confident version of herself," Peter says. "That's e

Thanks to the support of generous donors, children li confidence, and more opportunities to live life to the

Program Updates

ng Horse Show Celebrates Riders and

9, Equest proudly hosted its annual Spring , where 42 participants came together to eir riding skills in front of family and friends. the two-day event, riders demonstrated their onfidence, and horsemanship while celebrating plishments in the arena Equest also recognized tanding individuals, including Veteran of the Adult Rider of the Year Bradley M, and Youth Year, Joshua A. Congratulations to all of our riders!

Derby Day at Algier’s Supports Hooves for Heroes

On May 2, friends and supporters gathered at Algier’s for a Kentucky Derby Watch Party, enjoying one of the most exciting days in horse racing while coming together in support of a meaningful cause.

Thanks to the generosity of those who attended and contributed, the event raised $5,088 for our Hooves for Heroes Veterans Program

Spring Semester Outcomes

From the Special Olympics to our spring horse show, we celebrated achievements that reflected the dedication of our client this spring:

110 clients participated in our programs.

22 clients were veterans or dependents of military veterans

20 physical and occupational therapy clients were served 14 work groups supported events and special projects. 226 volunteers contributed to our programs and 8,399 total volunteer hours were served.

Community Engagement

Crystal Charity Partnership

Equest is thrilled to announce a $1 1 million grant award from Crystal Charity Ball to expand its equine-facilitated programs children over the next two years The funding will help grow beloved Mini Ambassador program through the addition of n therapy horses, a specialized transport van, and a dedicated horse barn. The miniature therapy horses bring the healing p the human-horse connection to schools, libraries, and commu events, and are already making a big impact by helping firststudents build confidence and improve reading skills

Volunteer Spotlight: Daniel O’Connor

Daniel O’Connor has been a dedicated volunteer with Equest since January 2022, generously giving his time to Volunteer Trainings, Horse Shows, Special Olympics events, and, most notably, the PALS program, which is part of Equest’s partners with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) Y.O.U. (Youth Outrea Unit). A steadfast member of the Wednesday night group, Da consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every class is b successful and enjoyable

He arrives early to prepare tack, support and encourage newe volunteers, and help everything run smoothly before class beg Yet one of Daniel’s greatest strengths is the connection he bu with our clients. Whether sharing the knowledge he has gaine during his time at Equest or simply laughing and chatting together, clients naturally gravitate toward his warm and welcoming spirit.

During class, instructors know they can always count on Danie exceptionally well with our horses and helps create a safe, sup build confidence and horsemanship skills Even after class, wh is still asking how he can help care for the horses.

Daniel approaches his volunteer role with pride, compassion, and dedication, and it is truly a pleasure to work alongside him We are incredibly grateful for his continued commitment to our clients, our horses, and the mission of Equest

Instructor Achievements

Equest’s mission is strengthened by the passion and expertise of our instructors, who bring dedication, compassion, and professionalism to every rider and program we serve We are proud to recognize their recent accomplishments and celebrate the meaningful impact they continue to make within our community.

Instructor: Kim Burris

Please join us in congratulating Kim Burris on earning her PATH Intl. Level 1 Driving Certification! This accomplishment reflects her dedication to professional development and expanding opportunities within our equine-assisted services programs We are proud of Kim’s achievement, Congratulations!

Instructor: Alysa Bishop

We are excited to recognize Alysa Bishop for earning her PATH Intl ESMHL Certification This accomplishment reflects her dedication to professional growth and commitment to expanding her expertise in equine-assisted services. Please join us in congratulating Alysa on this significant achievement.. Congratulations, Alysa!

Instructor: Kirsten Cozart

Join us in celebrating Kirsten Cozart on earning her PATH Intl. Level 1 Driving Certification and Advanced Riding Instructor Certification! These ccomplishments reflect her dedication to excellence in equine-assisted services. Congratulations, Kirsten!

Instructor: Laura Decou

We’re excited to celebrate Laura for earning her PATH Intl Interactive Vaulting Certification! This achievement reflects two years of dedication to developing her skills and preparing our horses for success. Congratulations to Laura!

nstructor: Michaela McKinney

We are excited to recognize Michaela for successfully completing her PATH Intl. Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification and Interactive Vaulting Certification! These achievements reflects your dedication and expertise, and we are honored to have you on our team. Congratulations!

Instructor: Liz Pemberton

We are proud to share that Liz Pemberton has earned her PATH Intl. Advanced Riding Instructor Certification! Liz’s hard work, dedication, and passion for serving our riders have made this accomplishment especially meaningful. We are thrilled to celebrate this accomplishment with you, Liz!

Events

Instructor: Ruth Shim

Congratulations to Ruth Shim on earning her PATH Intl. Interactive Vaulting Certification! As the coordinator of our Hooves for Heroes Veteran Program, Ruth is always seeking ways to enhance the services we provide We’re excited to expand our interactive vaulting offerings and the positive impact this achievement will have on our veterans and program community. Congratulations Ruth!

Celebrating 45 Years: Blue Ribbon Gala Success for Equest

The 45th Anniversary Blue Ribbon Gala at Gilley’s was an unforgettable evening celebrating the impact of Equest and the incredible community that makes our mission possible. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, along with the dedication of our volunteers, staff, and longtime supporters, the event raised an extraordinary $575,000 in support of Equest programs and services n h h l d k hi il

celebrated our incredible volunteers n er Co The evening was filled with gra n y.

Get involved with Equest as a client, volunteer, or supporter and help us empower individuals through the healing power of horses. Explore ways to make a difference and join our mission today.

Upcoming Events

Warrior Spirit ProjectYoga With Horses

Volunteer Training

North Texas Giving Day

July 12, 2026

3:00pm - 4:30pm

Email veterans@equest.org for details

August 15 & August 22 Visit equest.org/volunteer for details

September 17, 2026

Support & Get Involved

Our Programs

Give Online NTX Giving Day - Equest

At Equest, our equine-assisted programs serve individuals of all ages and abilities, offering therapeutic riding, therapy services, veterans programs, counseling, and literacy initiatives. Through the powerful connection with horses, clients build confidence, independence, and meaningful skills, guided by our dedicated instructors and staff Learn how to get started at equest org/programs or email registrar@equest org

Volunteer Services

Volunteers are at the heart of Equest, providing essential support to clients, instructors, and horses across all programs. Whether you ' re interested in assisting with classes, helping in the barn, volunteering with a group, or supporting special events, there are a variety of opportunities to get involved

Join our volunteer community and make a meaningful impact! New volunteer training sessions for the Fall semester will be held on August 15 and August 22. These sessions are designed to welcome new volunteers and provide the training needed to get started. Learn more and sign up at equest org/volunteer

Equest Legacy Giving ensures your support continues for generations, keeping our programs available for future clients. Gifts through wills, trusts, IRAs, or life income plans create a lasting impact on the lives we serve Learn more about supporting Equest at equest org/legacygiving or contact Boski Sharma, Director of Donor Relations, Community Foundation of Texas at bsharma@cftexas.org.

Support Our Mission

Your support helps unleash a wave of inspiration and lasting change at Equest By participating in horse sponsorship or Equest’s monthly giving program, you help us provide hope, strength, and joy to those we serve. Learn more equest.org/supportus

Team Up for Corporate Groups

Equest offers a unique corporate team building experience that harnesses the power of horses in the picturesque Texas Horse Pa Southern Dallas. This interactive session is tailored to align with company ’ s specific goals and team dynamics, conducted entirely the ground in our covered arena. Horses provide immediate feed by mirroring human emotions, making them exceptional partner team building Led by qualified professionals, this transformative experience enhances team cohesion and productivity, leaving a lasting impact. Learn more HERE or email teamup@equest.org fo more information.

Stay connected with Equest! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or join our mailing list to receive updates and news at equest.org/contact-us

BOX 171779, Dallas Texas 75217 (972) 412 - 1099