Friends for Therapeutic Equine Activities (FTEA) was founded in July 1996. A similar program was dissolving, and two instructors and a volunteer felt there was a need for this type of valuable service. An attorney provided legal services pro bono, a plan of action was developed, and FTEA was established.
A Board of Directors was formed, and by July 18, 1996 the application for a not-for-profit status, 501(c) (3), was filed with the Internal Revenue Service. FTEA was incorporated as an Illinois Corporation with an employer tax indentification number and a registration number with the Illinois Charitable Act.
The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), allowed a transfer of the program accreditation from the previous program, since the same horses and NARHA certified instructors were being used.
Several private contributors enabled FTEA to purchase eight horses from the dissolving program, along with the necessary tack, (bridles, saddles, etc.). After an extensive search, a program site was located in September 1996, at Kingsway Farm, in Winfield, Illinois. Kingsway Farm provided FTEA with an office/tack room, and the use of both indoor and outdoor arenas in exchange for our boarding agreement for the horses.
On September 24, 1996 the first Fall Session of therapeutic riding began with 52 riders. Classes were, and still are, held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Three sessions are held annually, each fall, spring, and summer. We serve over 70 participants throughout the year.
FTEA has continued to grow and develop a base of support . Our aim is to keep program fees at an affordable level for all.
Annual fund raising events have evolved along with many smaller efforts to raise money to meet our budgeted expenses.
Although FTEA operates with a tight budget, the organization continues to meet expenses and has been able to continue the programming uninterrupted. Because fees are being kept at an affordable level, the number of riders has continued to increase.
However, the demand for additional therapy horses, and new equipment and tack, is a continual challenge. We seek the support of corporations serving the mentally, physically, psychologically, and socially challenged children and adults of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, and Will counties. All donations, large and small, are greatly appreciated!
