The Homes for Horses Coalition, representing over 300 equine rescues and sanctuaries across the United States, is urging anyone with an interest in horses to volunteer at a local horse rescue facility during the 25th annual Make A Difference Day, the nation’s largest day of community service.

Initiated in 1990, this national day encourages Americans to devote time and talent to helping others by doing volunteer work in the community. On this day millions of citizens participate in community improvement projects of almost every sort including building, painting, repairing and clean-up.

The Homes for Horses Coalition encourages Americans to make a commitment to helping a horse rescue organization for just one day. “These rescues strive daily to effect positive change for at-risk equines in their communities, and they are so often in need of help with short-term labor intensive projects,” said Cindy Gendron, the Coordinator of the Coalition. “A committed group working hard for one day can make a huge difference by completing necessary tasks, such as fence repair, building shelters to protect horses from the elements or putting up hay for the winter.”

For those that can’t do physical labor, they can help by checking out a group’s wish list and shopping for needed items. One way to find horse rescues in a particular area is to go to the Homes for Horses Coalition website at www.homesforhorses.org and click on the member page where you will find contact information for rescues listed by state. Always contact a rescue prior to visiting so they can be prepared to put your efforts to good use, and always pre-arrange dropping off donations. Most of these organizations have regular volunteer programs, and one day of service may lead to many more fulfilling days of volunteering.

Go out and make a difference for horses on Make a Difference Day!

The Homes for Horses Coalition is supported by the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the Animal Welfare Institute and The Humane Society of the United States’ Jeannie and Jim Dodson Equine Protection Fund. It is dedicated to ending horse slaughter and other forms of equine abuse, while promoting growth, collaboration and professionalism in the equine rescue and protection community. Find us online at www.homesforhorses.org and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/HomesforHorses.