As we prepare to enter our fifth year, we are focusing on what it takes to expand our growth, restructure our mission, and move toward a bigger and brighter vision. To make this happen, we need like-minded people to join our village.

Change is inevitable, and in 2025, we’re making some tough but necessary decisions at SFAR. We know some of you will be on board with these changes, while others may not—and that’s okay. Growth requires hard conversations, and we’re ready to have them.

For years, we’ve been committed to helping horses in need. But now, we’re shifting our focus toward more responsible, long-term solutions that align with our values. One of the biggest changes you’ll notice is that we are no longer supporting the "bailing" process from kill pens.

You might be wondering—are we done rescuing horses? Absolutely not.

Over the past few months, we’ve been collaborating with Amy Vanner of STARS Sporthorses to develop innovative programs and approaches. Amy brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the table, and together, we’re laying the foundation for a new chapter in our mission.

Here’s why we’ve made this difficult decision:

Ethical Concerns: Paying kill buyers to release horses means we’re indirectly supporting an exploitative industry. These buyers profit not only from slaughter but also from selling to rescues, keeping the cycle of harm going.

Emotional Manipulation: The emotional urgency of "bailing" horses is often used as a fundraising tool. While effective, it supports an unsustainable model. We want our work to be based on real, lasting impact—not crisis-driven reactions.

Better Alternatives: Instead of fueling the kill pen cycle, we’re redirecting our rescue efforts to proactive solutions. Through our partnership with Amy Vanner and STARS Sporthorses, we’ll be rescuing Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs), giving them a chance to heal, retrain, and thrive in new careers—and most importantly, ensuring their safety from slaughter.

This shift also aligns with our evolution of The Teal Elephant Project.

Starting in 2025, The Teal Elephant Project will focus on enriching the lives of underserved youth through equine-based programs in partnership with Amy Vanner of STARS Sporthorses.

Our riding academy and summer camp offer a safe, empowering space for leadership, personal development, and education. We foster independent thinking, problem-solving, and confidence-building through the transformative bond between youth and OTTBs.

We’re committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion—creating a healing refuge for youth to grow, build resilience, and see themselves as capable and worthy of success.

What’s New?

• A year-long student commitment focused on confidence, responsibility, and horsemanship.
  
  

• Scholarship-based sponsorships covering the $3,800 annual program cost.
  
  

• Riding gear (helmet, boots, breeches, gloves, etc.) included in funding needs.
  
  

• A summer camp experience to strengthen connection and learning.
  
  

• Expanded fundraising efforts—seeking donors and sponsors to make it all happen.
  
  

We are deeply grateful for your continued support and can’t wait to bring this vision to life. If you’re interested in sponsoring a student, donating, or getting involved, reach out—we’d love to connect.

Let’s build something incredible together.