The Standardbred Transition Alliance (STA) has announced that grants totaling $50,000 have been distributed to STA Aftercare Organizations that have successfully achieved accreditation in 2022.  

The STA announced the newest accredited organizations are Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program (NY) and This Old Horse (MN and WI), which join Sunshine Horses (NY), Future for Standardbreds (ME) and New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program (FL, KY, LA, NY, OH, PA). 

 “We are incredibly proud to add Purple Haze and This Old Horse to the stable of STA-accredited organizations,” said Jennifer Daniels, STA administrator. “Organization accreditation is the first step toward sustainable aftercare; we’re excited to celebrate these two fantastic non-profits and give donors confidence that their charitable contributions to the STA are making an impact.”

Created in 2018 to recognize and assist nonprofit entities focused on acquiring, rehabilitating, training and rehoming Standardbred racehorses, the STA awarded its first accreditation status and financial grant in 2020. Since then, $150,000 has been gifted to charities that have achieved accreditation. Accredited organizations are also eligible for additional grant opportunities that become available throughout the year. 

The STA Spring Grant, given in conjunction with the awarding of 2022 accreditation status, rewards organizations that have successfully met or exceeded all application criteria and that have adhered to the STA Best Practices guidelines. Applying organizations must demonstrate that they are fiscally sound, with competent staff and a rigorous screening process in places to ensure that Standardbreds being rehomed through their organization have the best chance at a quality career once they retire from racing. 

The STA is supported by equine enthusiasts from every facet of the harness racing, including trainers, owners, breeders, racetracks, sales companies and others. 

The next application window for STA accreditation will open on July 15, 2022.

(With files from Standardbred Transition Alliance)