2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animal Protection & Welfare, Animals

Mission: We strive to promote the humane treatment of horses and to strengthen the bond between horses and people through the education of people, especially children. Our goal is to properly unite children and horses in a safe environment, using accepted methods to preserve the best equine care through informative and educational guidance, education and administration adhering to the understanding of the need for the preservation of rural equine communities.

Community Stories

41 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

9

Dawn131, Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

We found LOHR about 5 yrs ago when my then 12 yr old daughter was interested in riding horses. Finding the rescue changed our lives in so many ways. Not only did my daughter improve her English riding skills with a rescued off the track thoroughbred, she learned life skills that have propelled her into a community leader in her senior yr of high school. She's competed in local horse shows, winning Grand Champion at the county fair as a 4H member. She's been the President of her 4H club for 2 yrs, participated in the Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership program and has a straight A average heading into college. But, it's not just about the riding. It's about the confidence she has gained representing LOHR at events, talking about the horses and the therapy programs, and doing internships in Equine-Assisted Therapy. It's about the education that the farm has given her about nutrition, and hands on experience in all aspects of horse care. It's about the kinship she now has with her horse that has helped her during difficult times in her life. Through bullying, grief, depression, and illness, working with the horses has kept her emotionally sound and the farm is a place of respite for the both of us. I've recently called in sick just to volunteer with the horses so I could work through some personal issues myself. I came home with more clarity and felt less stressed. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to work with the wonderful volunteers, whom I call friends, to raise awareness and funding for the 53 residents at the sanctuary. It is truly a place where Humans Help Horses Heal Humans.

Comments ( 1 )

Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016 Thank you so much for your continued support! We appreciate all your efforts for the horses!!

1

CDelrosario Volunteer

Rating: 1

01/24/2020

Not a true nonprofit organization. Not all of the money donated goes toward the welfare of the horses. Way back when Lucky Orphans badly injured a horse while "rescuing" it.

1

hillshep Client Served

Rating: 5

11/01/2019

Deanna and Karissa Lee have been lovely in helping us rehome a rescue mare, Luna. She's still a young horse and needs a job at a loving home. Also, D helped us find a sweet little standard donkey Mama, Jenny. It WAS a rescue situation and Jenny was preggers! 4.5 months later, she gave

2

kchorzepa General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2019

Run by wonderful people that truly care about saving these majestic creatures.

2

Mary409 Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2019

I donate to LOHR because I know the money goes to the care of the horses! Remarkable place to bring children of all ages and offers a therapeutic program ! I love everything LOHR stands for !

Previous Stories
5

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

While I have never personally been to this farm I do know Deanna reaches out to the community and offers help whenever needed , she also offers suggestions ! She is a hands on hard working and professional lady that represents a great cause !

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your support and review!

1

Brenda D.2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/21/2019

Deanna and her team of volunteers work hard every day helping horses and people. It’s a loving, caring environment and we are truly blessed to have found this rescue. It’s really helped my grandson he leaves saying “this was the best day ever!”

Previous Stories
3

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2018

Pony pals is a Great program. The volunteers are very caring to the kids as well as the horses. Great place to visit.

1

Carl C.1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/28/2019

I have been volunteering with lucky orphans for over 2 years now and am grateful for all the things I have learned and experienced in this time.

1

Barbara D.4 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/27/2019

When I started to volunteer at LOHR, I knew nothing about horses, but that changed quickly as I learned about them and spent time around them. They are amazing animals, I love them all, and they have a good forever home at LOHR. Deanna's slogan of "People Helping Horses Heal People" is true in so many ways. Come see for yourself!

2

Eileen L. Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/27/2019

Such an amazing place with 50 of the luckiest horses come visit and learn their stories or better yet come volunteer and spend quality time with the horses that are lucky to call this their forever home.

Previous Stories
5

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/27/2018

lucky orphans horse rescue is a gem in the Hudson valley come visit and see for yourself whether you come to their many events,pony pals,book a lesson,volunteer or just to walk the beautiful grounds and meet the many horses that live there you will not be disappointed.

1

Michael H.2 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/27/2019

LOHR is a great place to volunteer and learn about the horses .

Previous Stories
2

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/27/2018

A great place to volunteer and learn how to take of the horses .The owner Deanna is a copassinate and caring woman who is a patient teacher with her volunteers .I recommend that if anyone has a few hours to spare come volunteer at the farm

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1

Melissa M.10 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/27/2019

I love lucky orphans they helped me out a lot. Diana Mancuso you are the best

3

rlfennimore Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/07/2019

I began volunteering at Lucky Orphans a few short weeks ago and am thrilled to contribute to such a worthy organization!

3

shayshay73 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/06/2019

Two years ago in September I have attended an event at LOHR while there I decided to take an interest in volunteering,u have learned little about horses and still have a lot to learn,all the volunteers and workers are great and understanding ,to me my motto would be HORSES HELPING PEOPLE HELPING HORSES HEAL,my mom had breast cancer all focused on was the love from the FARMILY and the soft touch of the horses,my husband I got married July 21,2018 and LOHR was a part of so if you need a place to go come to the FARMILY highly recommend it

3

Stancy General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/06/2018

When friends are feeling down, I suggest that they visit Lucky Orphans to spend time with the horses, and perhaps volunteer. Deanna’s mission is a labor of love; she understands how bonding with her rescues helps us deal with or overcome pain, and makes her horses available to change lives.

It works for me. There are so many ways in which being w horses can have a positive impact. Visit LOHR and learn about the programs Deanna runs and/or hosts. In addition, Deanna will travel as part of her generous community outreach & support. Pictured here with Deanna is Mocha, one of the stars of this year's Appalachian Trail Day in the Harlem Valley.

You can help support the costs of this rescue program and equine therapy by making a donation.

Thanks Deanna.

1

horsegirl1940 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/13/2018

I am a rider there i used to ride Jackson, i also went to horse summer camp there. My favorite two horses are Samson ,Jackson. My favorite part is that they rescue horses that need good homes and good care.

Review from Guidestar

1

Writer Donor

Rating: 5

07/18/2018

I recently attended the LOHR 10 Year Anniversary Gala and it was amazing. As a donor I appreciated the dedication, professionalism and hard work that all of the folks (Board, Volunteers, sponsors) put into the event. As a horse lover it was also very nice to see the horses featured front and center as well as some testimonials from the humans that were impacted by the therapy horses. Kudos all around. If you are looking for animal sanctuary to support you can trust in Lucky Orphans, they do things right.

Previous Stories
3

Board Member

Rating: 5

04/24/2017

I came to Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue as a Board Member seeking to learn about animal sanctuaries and EAGALA therapy. I have since been impressed with the caliber of people on the Board, our volunteers, the Director and our trainers and how the community has embraced us. To me it says a lot that everyone cares a great deal about our mission and how we can grow as both individuals and as a team. The best part of it all is seeing happy and healthy horses!

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1

SheilaRabideau Board Member

Rating: 5

04/20/2017

I grew up with horses and rode professionally for years. Life happened and the horse world fell by the way-side. In 2015 I became aware of the LOHR facility close by my home- I passed it everyday on my way to work and was impressed by the ground maintenance. In December I stopped in and spoke with the Exec about the horses, the non-profit/mission, the horses and the vision. I began as a volunteer and as I was so impressed with the operation I joined the Board while still volunteering on weekends. The horses are well cared for and the fact that they are used for equine assisted therapy is a huge plus. "People helping horses to heal people" is the mantra and LOHR truly lives it. Horses (and other critters) are there for life being rehabilitated, supported and cared for, for the remainder of their days. The people that the horses help are not just those who come for therapy, but those who interact with them on any level. Truly a magical place!

missbook Board Member

Rating: 5

04/19/2017

I grew up with horses and was eager to share my passion with my own children. Seven years ago I enrolled my then 5-year old daughter in the Young Riders program I’d heard about at Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue. Since that time, my involvement with Lucky Orphans has evolved from volunteer and committee member to sponsor and Board member.

Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue is a wonderful organization dedicated to helping horses help people. They offer many different types of programming for people of all ages, and their EAGALA therapy partnerships continue to expand to more and more area organizations. Free monthly events encourage families to visit and enjoy the horses. It's a great place to visit, whether you are a rider or prefer to enjoy the horses from afar.

Being part of the mission of Lucky Orphans has allowed me to show my family the meaning of community and giving back, while allowing me to continue my relationship with horses themselves. It's a great place to be!

Previous Stories
3

Board Member

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

I first learned about Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue about 6 years ago when my daughter became interested in horses. She began riding in Deanna's "little riders" group each weekend, which led to lessons and schooling shows. We've enjoyed our time at Lucky Orphans so much that we followed them to a new barn even though it was much further away from our house. Since that time we've had awesome experiences with lessons, clinics, shows and trail rides. We believe in the mission and have sponsored a Lucky Orphans horse for the past 3 years. The philosophy and mission of LOHR is one of giving and caring, and I wholeheartedly recommend you check them out!

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you so much for your continued support and for volunteering your time as a board member!

luckyorphan Board Member

Rating: 5

04/17/2017

My two daughters were introduced to Lucky Orphan Horse Rescue over 10 years ago and we haven't stopped loving this place. They learned so much about what it really takes to care for these animals. It taught them compassion, perseverance and hippology, just to name a few attributes.

The director, Deanna Mancuso has such an unparalleled commitment, I am always in awe.
She has introduced many new programs over the last few years and has worked tirelessly on advocating for horses who are neglected.

My daughter Sami rode Rogue, and liked to help train Donuts. She would compete at the Dutchess County Fair and liked Eventing.

We all volunteer when we can and will always cherish our time spent at LOHR.

3

Philip24 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

03/03/2017

I love this crew. I've known them for years. Their tireless work and genuine sense of compassion renews my faith in mankind.

2

Frank.S. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/04/2016

Thank god for such a wonderful and caring charity! Deanna and her team at lucky Orphans Horse Rescue make such a positive and tangible difference in the lives of beautiful animals in need. It is easy to see that, thanks to Lucky Orphan's dedication and commitment, these horses have a second chance at life and the opportunity to enrich the lives of others through their involvement in a variety of public outreach and therapy programs. To the Lucky Orphans team, Thank You, and Keep up the Great Work!

2

Writer Donor

Rating: 5

02/04/2016

This place is Heaven!!! I have never seen a group of more selfless people in my life! The horses are treated with kid gloves and they are giving back every day to anyone who needs a lift in life. The property is so peaceful and Deanna has put her heart and soul into helping not only horses but every adult or child that enters this sanctuary!! ! I also love the fact that when I give to a charity that I know where every penny goes!! Thanks so much Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue for doing all the right things for all!!!

1

Kiersten02 Volunteer

Rating: 4

01/20/2016

I found LOHR when I was looking to get some horse experience two years ago. Being that it was close to my house, I went about three days a week to help out and loved it even though some of the people and horses were intimidating. I love to be around Deanna and the horses and she has become one of my biggest role models. Now that they moved to Dover I can't go as much but try to get every opportunity I can to go out and visit or help. Because of LOHR I know so much about horses and am trying to become a Therapeutic equestrian instructor of some sort. Thank you Deanna!

6

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/20/2016

LOHR is a safe place for 53 previously unwanted and neglected horses. They live in a naturally enriched herd environment, are fed high quality forage and supplementation, have free access to shelter and water at all times, are NOT over worked in the lesson/therapy programs, are groomed and blanketed regularly, and are treated with utmost respect by Deanna and all volunteers. As an equine professional and animal welfare advocate, I whole heatedly support this sanctuary. Out of the 10,000 horses currently residing in Dutchess County, many do not receive adequate care by the standards of basic animal husbandry. It is the goal of LOHR to spread awareness and education so that we can ensure a better future for the animals who inspire such dedication in our hearts. Without LOHR, these horses would be homeless or worse. An average of 160,000 horses are sold to slaughter at auction annually. These 53 will never see that fate.

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you so much for your support!! We appreciate all you do for Lucky Orphans and the horses that live here!

3

CaraMia Client Served

Rating: 5

01/20/2016

Lucky Orphan Annie gave my courage back!!! Cuervo increases it...being around these gentle giants is a lesson everyday! Kindness, humility, respect and love.

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your support!

1

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 1

01/19/2016

Are horse horders, not horse saviors. The owner is very disrespectful.

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

We are so sorry you feel this way! We are a sanctuary, not a rescue that adopts out. We invite you to come see the horses on the farm, as visitors are always welcome!

2

Goodyoneshoe H. Client Served

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

LOHR has been a source of inspiration in my journey. I have learned that a disability is only as limiting as you let it, and continue to tackle new challenges in horsemanship every day. Deanna and her associates are always willing to help and my only regret is they settled into a beautifully amazing property so dang far from my house! But seriously, good work. Good people. Good deeds. Its allllllll good. Love em'.

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your support!

2

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

I found Lucky Orphans during a dark time in my life. I met some amazing people and found healing as I learned about horses and volunteered. Now that I'm working I can't go as often but I know how well cared for these rescued horses are and in turn, the horses help people in profound ways. The community is welcome and gives their support. Every time I visit I leave feeling better. A very deserving non-profit rescue/sanctuary!

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your review and support! You are a vital part of Lucky Orphans!

3

Writer Client Served

Rating: 1

01/19/2016

After years away from horses and battles with alcohol, drugs, marriage, divorce, and parenting special needs kids, I have found my peace again. Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue heals horses, who help heal people. I AM HEALING!!!

Comments ( 1 )

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your support! We are so glad we are able to help you heal! Are you sure you meant 1 star?

2

Heidi65 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

i have known Deanna since she was a your girl with her first horse who she still has
her dedication the LOHR and the animals each and every one has a story and she can tell each one the horses are happy healthy and above all safe i pray she continues to do this great work and kudos to all the vollys for there also tireless work

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you so much for your support!

2

Writer Donor

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

I have known Deanna for over 10 years and I have seen her take care of so many horses and people in that period of time. Every penny that Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue raises goes directly to the rescue. No salaries for anyone!! If you are ever in the area please stop in and visit and you will not be disappointed. The property is a perfect sanctuary and the horses are as happy and healthy as can be...they love visitors!! These Lucky Orphans know they have been rescued and they are so ready, willing and able to rescue any human pals in need!! They always pay it forward just like Deanna does! Great place and thank you to everyone who supports LOHR!!!!

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you so much for your continued support!

2

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

Deanna runs a very tight ship at LOHR! Each horse receives the highest quality individualized care. The volunteer staff is highly knowledgeable, and pleasant to work with. Each animal is loved and provided with all essential needs. Paddocks are cleaned daily, and high quality forage is provided 24/7. Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue is a peaceful sanctuary where horses and humans come together to heal.

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Lucky Orphans 01/20/2016

Thank you for your support!!

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