United Pegasus Foundation

I recently started to volunteer at United Pegasus Foundation (UPF) in this incredibly giving community of animal advocates. UPF is in the process of relocating the thoroughbred rescue horses to the stables on Woodford-Tehachapi Rd., Tehachapi.

UPF has been able to rescue thoroughbreds because of the generosity of the people and community. In fact, UPF survives on donations from the general public. While rescue is an ongoing struggle, as a community of horse lovers, enthusiasts and racing fans, UPF is doing all they can to provide a dignified retirement for these noble animals. If you are interested in volunteering, UPF welcomes you with open arms.

A primary need is keeping the grounds for the horses clean and neat. Poop patrol is done at least twice a day. My experience doing this work has been awakening. When I am doing the work, the horses meander around me. I often will take a break and give a little brushing on their backs, neck and legs. The hugs they give me are tremendously calming and remind me of what it means to be kind.

Please visit http://www.unitedpegasus.org to see over 100 horses who need sponsorship. Any amount to help feed and care for these horses who will be with UPF for the rest of their lives is appreciated. Other ways to help include companies, organizations or foundations specifying grants, matching funds or United Way Campaigns for UPF. Remembering UPF in your will or trust, or forming a charitable trust will make them humbly grateful.

UPF will also be open for visits soon. Many of the thoroughbreds that are donated or rescued by United Pegasus Foundation are permanent retirees due to soundness issues, temperament problems or age. Giving these magnificent horses, that have given so much in their racing careers, a retirement is not possible without you. UPF is a nonprofit 501(C)(3) and all donations are tax deductible.

UPF's new location is 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Rd., Tehachapi. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You must call prior to opening to visit. Phone Helen at (626) 773-6016 or email [email protected]. You can mail them at P.O. Box 2477, Tehachapi, CA 93581.

Once again, if you have an affinity for horses, please consider volunteering at UPF.