Dear SIRE Family:

After a tremendous amount of thought, anguish and guidance, SIRE leadership has decided our operations should remain closed until we are confident we can provide services in a manner that is safe and healthy for all involved. Due to the fluid nature of the Coronavirus outbreak, we cannot predict how long this may last.

We have had to make some very difficult decisions to ensure that SIRE is viable and available to those we serve once the crisis passes. We are moving up the timeline of our strategic plan and discontinuing services at Hockley. Unfortunately, this has required us to reduce staff. The remaining staff are working from home except those who are critical to the care of our herd.

First, we would like to personally thank each employee who has been laid off for their passion, dedication, hard work and understanding on this decision. Second, we would like to thank all the volunteers, riders and donors who have been so supportive of SIRE. It is our belief that these decisions are the best way to navigate this difficult journey with the greatest chance of long-term success.

By preserving our assets and financial reserves, SIRE will be in a position to continue as the leader in therapeutic horsemanship for the Greater Houston community. The limited staff will continue to care for our horses, raise much-needed funds, communicate with stakeholders and prepare for re-opening so we can serve our clients better than ever. While the current day to day situation may be uncertain, our riders and clients deserve a strong and effective therapeutic horsemanship experience when we are able to provide services again.

On behalf of the SIRE Board of Directors and Joe Wappelhorst, our Executive Director, thank you again for your support and understanding. Together we can nurture each other and SIRE through this crisis. It will take a lot of hard work to meet this challenge. I am also confident that the character, fortitude and backbone of “SIRE” minded people will see us through to better days. I welcome your comments, ideas and suggestions to keep SIRE strong today and in the future. You can contact me at sireboard@sire-htec.org.

Warmest regards,

Charlotte McIntyre
Board President
SIRE