Why the sad fate of TEAD?
As the non-profit body suspends operations, an ex-volunteer seeks answers
Who is responsible for TEAD’s demise?
I have been involved with the Equestrian Association for the Disabled (TEAD) since 1983. On a volunteer basis, I have performed every task associated with TEAD, from mucking stalls to acting as chair of the board.
From the day TEAD opened its doors, we have done everything in our power to to add professionalism, fulfil the mission statement, and provide therapy and joy to the lives of the physically and emotionally challenged people of Hamilton.
There were years when I was on the board that our budget seemed unattainable. When the yearly budget was presented to the board in September, reviewed by the board and voted on and accepted by the board, we often over the years asked ourselves if we were making the right decisions.
We sent our books and records to an independent auditor yearly. The cost of the audit, ($3,000) was, to TEAD, a tremendous amount of money but, we knew as board members it was our responsibility that all money collected from any source be accounted for on a yearly basis.
Except for our one employee, Hilary Webb, who we hired in 1992, we were a completely volunteer association. Our board comprised interested citizens, parents of riders and a rider representative — which we felt was very important.
One of our main concerns was the health, welfare and training of our very special horses. Without the horses, we obviously would not be able to provide the therapy so desperately needed.
TEAD yearned for a home of its own and in 2007 the dream came true. But now it would seem it is not only losing its home, but the complete program is shutting down.
My questions regarding this heartbreaking — to many — issue are:
How did the board of directors allow the organization to become so deeply in debt? At the annual general meeting in the spring of this year, a reasonable picture was painted to the members about the economic outlook for TEAD. I can only assume an audit was performed in August or September and the results were a surprise to the board.
Did the board have the books and records audited yearly by an independent auditor? If not, why? Does the $500,000 debt include the mortgage on the property?
A community meeting has been called for Friday at the Ancaster Fairgrounds.
The horses at TEAD are very important. Some of us are taking our beloved horses and placing them in other stables. What of the others?
As a former board member, I am aware of the responsibility the board has to its members.
Not only a moral responsibility but a monetary one as well.