More than just another cute face, they have a place in your program! Cathy Dolson, Specialty Programs Coordinator, Registered Instructor STAR - 11800 Hwy 11E, Lenoir City, TN 37772 1 A little bit about our program: • Initial education-based program conceived in 2008, minis donated in 2008 • Business plan, program & educational curriculum developed, and presented to public and private schools in 2009. • Initial pilot program began in 2011. • Some of the issues raised during our analysis became major roadblocks ….. Funding shortfalls & liability issues 2 Moving forward….. Program revised in 2012 to include new services targeted to additional audiences 2011= 11 visits 2012 = 18 visits 2013 = 45 visits 2014= 40 visits* 2015 = 18 visits to date 3 Define your offering….. • Does it fit with your mission? • Is there a market for your services? • Is it sustainable? 4 Determine your costs ….. • Insurance? • Staff time & training? • Equipment – truck, trailer, etc.? • Supplies -- diapers, shoes, halters? • Costs of minis – vet, farrier, etc.? … to help set your price 5 Seek out Support….. • Civic organizations? • Retailers supporting the market? • Fundraisers? • Sponsorships? 6 Seek out Support….. … and train them! 7 Reach out to your audience….. • Get to know your prospects • Schedule a site visit – meet & tour, leave a proposal • Describe the program &benefits for THEIR population • Make it professional-grade …. Take yourself seriously! • Rack cards … more bang for your buck 8 Develop your client proposals….. • Break down pricing options • Mention any sponsorships applied to the proposal! • Describe the experience and site set-up 9 Site visit checklist….. 10 About your minis….. 11 Visit Day! It’s here! Everyone’s excited! 12 Visit Day! It’s here! Everyone’s excited! 13 Staying in Touch 14 Resources DIAPERS: Bun Bags www.bunbag.com Potty bags Miniature Horse Therapy Products & Sales on Facebook – Angel Anthony Filby SHOES: BuildABear www.buildabear.com Miniature Horse Therapy Products & Sales on Facebook HALTERS: www.KustomFitHalters.com – personalized with a wide selection of colors and sizes!! CERTIFICATION: www.PetPartners.org CURRICULUM: Strides to Success, MARVELOUS MINIS PATH Premier Accredited Facility www.stridestosuccess.org Plainfield, IN COSTUMES: Petsmart www.Petsmart.com Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Crafts 15