CARMA Gives More Than $260,000 to Retired Horses

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                                            CONTACT:     Lucinda Mandella

Arcadia, CA –December 20, 2009                                                                   

CARMA Allocates More Than $260,000 to Retired Horses

 

At its November board meeting, the CARMA Board voted to give $264,000 to twelve different charitable organizations caring for retired California racehorses.  This figure is an increase of approximately 50% from the amount granted in 2008, its first year of fundraising.  Last year, after only 6 months of operation, CARMA was able to grant $150,450 to eight charities.  The predominant source of funding is a .03% deduction from purses that goes directly to CARMA.  Owners do have the ability to opt out of the program, but most owners, close to 80%, participate.

“We are extremely proud of the work we have done over the past 12 months. These funds will help buy much needed hay, feed and medications etc.  Hopefully this will give a financial cushion to each of the charities,” said CARMA Board Chair Madeline Auerbach.  “Not only has the CARMA program proven to be successful in terms of dollars raised, we’re able to see a tangible difference at the farms and facilities where the horses live.  As we go out and visit organizations throughout the year, our directors are seeing the money put to work.”

On December 26th, CARMA will present each of the charities with a check.  Thanks to the generosity of Santa Anita’s president, and CARMA board member, Ron Charles, CARMA will host a day at the races for grant recipients, including lunch in Front Runner Restaurant and a winner’s circle presentation.

Organizations receiving funding include CANTER – CA, California Equine Retirement Foundation, Equine Encore Foundation, Glen Ellen Vocational Academy, Harmony & Hope Horse Haven, Heaven Can Wait, Inc., Neigh Savers Foundation, Southern California Thoroughbred Rescue, Square Peg Foundation, Thoroughbred Rehab Center, Tranquility Farm, and United Pegasus Foundation. 

CARMA is run by an independent board of directors, chaired by Madeline Auerbach, and is responsible for hosting fundraising events, educating owners and trainers on equine retirement and working to unify the industry in support of retiring equine athletes.  For more information, visit CARMA’s website at www.carma4horses.org.

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