By Kathy Smith 

The Equine Foundation of Canada (EFC), a small but influential charity dedicated to improving the welfare of horses nationwide, officially filed for dissolution effective December 31, 2025, bringing to a close more than four decades of volunteer-driven impact. 

A Vision Takes Shape 

The story of the EFC began in the late 1970s with a vision from the Canadian Morgan Horse Association (CMHA). At its centre was George F. Wade of Kentville, Nova Scotia — a businessman, horseman, and determined advocate for equine welfare. Wade believed Canada needed a national charitable organization devoted to supporting equine health, education, and research. 

Turning that vision into reality was no small feat. Securing charitable status from Revenue Canada proved to be a long and frustrating process, but Wade’s persistence ultimately paid off. The organization was incorporated on December 13, 1979, and began financial operations in 1983 as the Canadian Morgan Horse Foundation — becoming the first equine-focused charity registered in Canada. 

From the outset, the foundation was entirely volunteer-run. Early leadership included Gary Nelson, Susan Nelson, and Deanna Wilson, who shared administrative duties. In 1987, Susan Nelson took on the demanding role of full-time volunteer treasurer, helping guide the organization through its formative years. 

Related: Bear Valley Rescue

Growing Beyond Its Roots 

In 1993, the organization broadened its scope and changed its name to the Equine Foundation of Canada to better reflect its national mission and appeal to a wider donor base. 

Following Wade’s passing, Eldon Bienert assumed the presidency and became instrumental in sustaining the foundation through nearly two decades of modest fundraising conditions. Much of the organization’s work relied on grassroots efforts — door-to-door fundraising, community events, and creative initiatives such as bake sales, raffles, auctions, and trail rides. 

EFC founder George Wade, a visionary horseman and determined advocate for equine welfare, believed Canada needed a national charitable organization devoted to supporting equine health, education, and research. Wade is pictured during the Apple Blossom Festival Parade in Kentville, NS, circa 1986. Photo: Leslie Wade 

Despite typically raising less than $7,500 annually for much of its history, Bienert’s persistence — and later, several significant donations he helped secure — kept the foundation viable. His leadership ensured that even limited funds were directed toward meaningful, nationwide impact. 

In the foundation’s final decade, President Bob Watson built on that legacy by increasing public awareness and helping guide strategic allocation of funds. 

Supporting Horses Across Canada 

Since 1984, the EFC has funded a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving equine health and welfare. Its guiding philosophy — People Helping People Helping Horses — translated into practical support for veterinary education, research, and emergency response. 

Related: Horse Community Heroes: Dr. Susan Raymond

One of the foundation’s most significant achievements was its investment in veterinary education. Over time, the EFC established endowments of approximately $100,000 at each of Canada’s five veterinary colleges: 

• Western College of Veterinary Medicine (Saskatoon) 
• University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine 
• Ontario Veterinary College (Guelph) 
• Université de Montréal (Saint-Hyacinthe) 
• Atlantic Veterinary College (Charlottetown) 

These endowments continue to fund scholarships in perpetuity for students pursuing careers in equine practice and research. In honour of its founder, EFC established the George F. Wade Memorial Scholarship, first awarded in 2022. 

In addition to scholarships, the foundation funded critical equipment for veterinary colleges, including equine teaching simulators at multiple institutions (2017–2020) and advanced tools such as diagnostic equipment and surgical infrastructure. One standout contribution was a state-of-the-art equine surgical table for the Atlantic Veterinary College, significantly enhancing surgical capabilities and patient care. 

First-year veterinary students exploring the digestive system of the equine simulator at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, made possible by a $50,000 donation from the EFC. Photo: Christina Weese 

Beyond academia, the EFC supported practical, on-the-ground needs across Canada, including: 

• Livestock emergency response units for fire departments 
• Training mannequins for emergency responders and therapists 
• Specialized equipment for equine research and treatment 

These initiatives helped improve outcomes not only for horses, but also for the professionals and volunteers who care for them. 

The Horse Council BC rescue mannequin (above/elow) named “Calamity,” purchased thanks to a generous donation by the EFC, is life-size and used to train BC’s emergency responders. Photos: HCBC

A National Impact, Built by Volunteers 

Over its lifetime, the EFC raised and distributed more than $1.5 million. While modest compared to larger charities, its impact was widely felt across the country. 

Notably, the foundation operated with no paid staff — an uncommon model in the charitable sector. Every dollar raised came from donations, with funds directed toward programs and grants. 

Related: Horse Community Heroes: Brian Tropea

The foundation’s success was also shaped by collaboration — with veterinary colleges, industry partners, publications, and donors who believed in its mission. Horse magazines provided advertising support, while individuals and organizations contributed through donations and memorial gifts. 

The Livestock Emergency Response Unit at the Brooks, AB Fire Department was funded by the EFC for use at livestock trailer accidents and during natural disasters such as floods and fires. (EFC Facebook) 

Challenges and Closure 

In recent years, the EFC faced increasing challenges. Fundraising became more difficult, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited in-person outreach and events. Economic pressures further reduced donor capacity. 

At the same time, the foundation struggled to recruit new board members and sustain leadership continuity. Despite its long history and meaningful contributions, the organization found itself without the resources needed to continue. 

After careful consideration, the board made the difficult decision to dissolve the foundation. 

A Lasting Legacy 

Though the EFC has closed its doors, its legacy endures. The scholarships it established will continue to support future veterinarians. The equipment it funded remains in use. The research and training it enabled continue to benefit horses across the country. 

For more than 45 years, the EFC demonstrated what a small, dedicated group of volunteers could accomplish with determination and purpose. As those involved often said, perseverance was the key. 

In many ways, the foundation lived up to its own description: the little engine that could. 

Although the work of the EFC may be finished, its impact on equine welfare in Canada will be felt for generations to come. 

Related: George Wade: Trailblazer of Canada’s Equine Industry

Related: New Collaboration Strengthens Support for Canadian Horse Owners in Times of Crisis

More by Kathy Smith

Main Photo: Equine Surgical Table gifted to Atlantic University Veterinary College. (EFC Facebook)