I believe the salaries are only living expenses because the people in charge have the Rescue at their farm. I have been to E.R.L. many times. Their lives are ALL about the equines. The animals are cared for superbly. The Rescue doesn't pay outside fundraisers to harass donors with sensationalised begging letters.
Review from Guidestar
This program is supposed to be a horse rescue but they made 159k in 2010 and 49k (1/3rd of all revenue) went to salaries.... ONE THIRD!
Of the 159k, only 22k went to take care of rescued horses!! That is less than 15% of their total revenue for the year went to rescue horses (their primary mission)!!
Who ever gave them 155k in donations needs to look for a better rescue that puts more money toward the horses they help!
Review from Guidestar