Frequently Asked Questions

The Rogers and Waterhouse Foundation supports animal advocacy or equine-assisted services that promote the wellbeing of both animals and people. It provides focused funding to expand the offerings of charities, with emphasis on initiatives that can be shared with others so their impact can extend to more communities over time.

The Rogers and Waterhouse Foundation is led by its founder and president, Shirley Waterhouse, and supported by a volunteer Board of Directors who help guide the Foundation’s mission and funding decisions. The board members are all dedicated animal advocates and bring experience from accomplished careers in fields such as engineering, accounting, and academia. You can learn more about the board and their backgrounds here.

The Foundation is funded through private contributions and donations from individuals who share its mission and want to support meaningful initiatives that benefit both animals and people.

Equine-assisted programs focus on guided interaction with horses where participants engage in activities such as observing, grooming, leading, or simply being with horses in a supportive, nature setting under trained supervision.

The Foundation supports equine-assisted programs because of the meaningful impact they can have on individuals and communities. Through her own experience working with horses, the Foundation’s founder, Shirley Waterhouse, witnessed firsthand the powerful connection that can form between humans and horses and later became a certified equine-assisted learning specialist. That experience, combined with a lifelong commitment to animal advocacy she shared with her husband Rod, shaped the Foundation’s mission to support programs where both people and animals benefit.

Applicants must be authorized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in good standing in the United States. Eligible organizations should be engaged in animal advocacy or equine-assisted services, which may include learning-based programs or therapeutic initiatives. If you’re unsure whether your project qualifies, you’re welcome to contact us before submitting an application.

No. At this time, the Foundation only funds projects administered by authorized U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.

Applications can be submitted through the funding application form on the website. Applicants will be asked to describe their organization, the proposed project, the amount of funding requested, the project timeline, and how the funds will be used. Proof of 501(c)(3) status and the most recent IRS tax return are required, and additional documentation may be requested depending on the type of project.

Each proposal is carefully reviewed by the Foundation’s Board of Directors to ensure alignment with the Foundation’s mission and funding priorities. Applications are evaluated for feasibility, responsible budgeting, clearly defined goals, and the potential impact of the proposed work.

Applications are reviewed when they are submitted, and applicants can expect feedback from the Foundation within about three weeks. Applicants will be contacted directly if additional information is needed or if funding is approved.

Your donation directly supports the projects we fund, helping cover the costs of delivering animal advocacy or equine-assisted programs. This may include expenses related to program delivery, care for animals, and the resources needed to provide services to participants.

Yes. The Rogers and Waterhouse Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law, and donors receive a confirmation receipt for their records. Donors also receive an annual giving summary for tax purposes.

Yes. Donations by check are welcome. Please make checks payable to The Rogers and Waterhouse Foundation, Inc. and mail them to P.O. Box 51 Ormond Beach, FL 32175-0051.

Yes. You may indicate during the donation process if your contribution is being made in honor or memory of someone. To dedicate your donation, simply select “Give in honor/memory” within the donation form. If you would like an acknowledgment sent, you can provide the email address of a person you would like notified.

If you have a question about your donation or need assistance, please contact us. We’re happy to help.