Our Projects
We fund projects that foster animal wellbeing, along with initiatives that bring animals and people facing life challenges together for mutual benefit.
Our approach
We take responsibility for where our funding goes.
Before funding a project, we review a submitted proposal to understand how the program is designed and what its impact will be. We are especially interested in projects that bring people and animals together in ways that create meaningful benefit for both. We look for clear planning and well-defined outcomes, and we’re drawn to programs with the potential to grow or be adopted by others.
Funding areas
Animal advocacy
Animal advocacy focuses on the protection, care, and wellbeing of animals.
We support programs that rescue, rehabilitate, or provide long-term care for animals in need, including initiatives that provide sanctuary or improve living conditions.
We’re especially interested in work that creates respectful opportunities for people to engage with and support rescued animals.
Equine-assisted programs
Our equine-assisted programs partner horses and humans to help people learn, grow, or heal.
These 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 calm presence of horses and their keen senses often soothe participants and foster a deep sense of connection and self-reflection.
Current initiatives
Animal Connection Program for Adults with Special Needs
Structured farm program where adults with special needs work with rescued animals.
Learn more →
Equine-Assisted Learning for the Visually Impaired
Guided sessions with horses focus on life skills and independence for individuals with visual impairments.
Learn more →
Our path to equine-assisted programs
After retiring, Shirley began riding horses and experienced firsthand the powerful bond that can form between humans and horses. Through this experience, she came to understand how meaningful these relationships could be and later became a certified equine-assisted learning specialist.
The Rogers and Waterhouse Foundation brings together Shirley’s commitment to equine-assisted learning with the lifelong animal advocacy she shared with her husband, Rod.
This combined focus has shaped the projects the Foundation supports today, where both humans and animals benefit.
Have a project to propose?
We welcome proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations working in animal advocacy or equine-assisted services.
If you are a facility that rescues animals and need help, we encourage you to apply. We are especially interested in projects that partner people with rescued animals to enhance the wellbeing of both.
If your organization focuses on equine-assisted programs and partners people with horses, especially if your program can be replicated, we are very interested in your proposal.
Before submitting, please review our funding criteria to ensure your project aligns with our focus areas and standards.
