One. Helping Many.

Thoroughbred
Charities of
America

2024 Wrap-Up: A Year of Impact and Growth

Thursday, January 23, 2025

As we reflect on 2024, we are proud to celebrate a year of remarkable accomplishments made possible by the generosity and passion of our supporters. This year, Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) awarded over $1 million in grants to 86 exceptional organizations dedicated to the welfare of Thoroughbreds, the people who care for them, and the future of our industry.

 

Our Grant Impact

Thanks to the contributions of our donors, we provided crucial funding across key areas of need:

 

  • 43% supported on-track placement programs and aftercare organizations helping to ensure retired Thoroughbreds receive the care, rehabilitation, and new homes they deserve.
  • 39% went to backstretch and farm worker programs, aiding the dedicated individuals who are the backbone of the racing and breeding industries.
  • 4% supported equine-assisted therapy programs, showcasing the incredible impact of Thoroughbreds in improving human lives.
  • 13% funded Thoroughbred incentive programs, promoting second careers for retired racehorses.
  • 1% was awarded to research organizations focused on the health and well-being of horses.

Over the last 34 years, TCA has distributed more than $27 million in grants to support over 200 organizations. We are especially grateful for the significant bequest from late California Thoroughbred owner Nancy Messineo, whose lifelong dedication to the well-being of horses has left a lasting legacy.

 

2024 Milestones

  • Record Applications: With over 100 applications submitted, TCA refined our funding priorities to address the growing demand. Special emphasis was placed on non-traditional aftercare initiatives and programs serving backstretch and farm employee communities.
  • Event Successes: From the Stallion Season Auction to Bid on the Bluegrass and our Bash at the Breeders’ Cup, our events raised vital funds and brought our community together.
  • Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover: We were thrilled to once again be the title sponsor of this impactful event, with 53 horses sourced from a TCA grantee organization entered in 2024.

Looking Ahead

“Each year, we are humbled by the unwavering generosity of our supporters and inspired by the impactful work of our grant recipients,” said Erin Halliwell, executive director of TCA. “This year, we’ve made meaningful strides in supporting the people and horses that are central to our industry. We look forward to continuing this mission in 2025.”

 

Grant applications for the 2025 cycle will open in mid-January, and we encourage organizations to apply. Together, we can extend our reach and create a brighter future for Thoroughbreds and their caretakers.

 

Join Us

The incredible work of TCA is only possible through the support of donors, sponsors, and advocates. As we close the chapter on 2024, we thank you for your unwavering commitment and invite you to join us in 2025 as we continue to fund and facilitate positive impact in the Thoroughbred community.