
Horse Sense Philanthropy was founded in July 2023 after a successful 15+ year career in university advancement, traditional non-profit fundraising positions for both regional and national non-profit organizations, years of experience as a therapeutic riding volunteer, a long-time interest in the horse-human connection, and in short, a passion for the equine‑assisted services (EAS) industry — therapeutic riding and horsemanship, equine‑assisted psychotherapy (EAP), equine‑facilitated learning (EFL), hippotherapy, and equine‑assisted wellness and coaching.
- Mary Lavin, Founder and Principal

Horse Sense Philanthropy, LLC partners with EAS non-profit organizations whose mission, programs, and services benefit children, youth, adults, families, Veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, and more. Through strengthening donor relationships (individual, foundation, and corporation), identifying new opportunities for awareness and engagement, and increasing total income from diverse streams, the goal is to support or build long‑term, sustainable fundraising programs. Hourly, project-based, six-month, and annual contract structures are available as an alternative to hiring full-time staff.

Services span foundation research and research tools, grant writing, website reviews focused on donor engagement, individual giving, and major‑ and planned‑gift program development, including Discovery Calls, coaching, consulting, and interim or full-time development director support.