The American Donkey Trust
The American Donkey Trust is a private foundation based in Middleburg, VA focused on donkey and equine welfare; the site lists PO Box 300, Middleburg and donation/contact options. IRS Form 990-PF filings (EIN 84-7050143) name Patricia D. Thomas as trustee and show grantmaking to equine and animal welfare organizations. The organization publishes mission and donation information on donkeys.org.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small to mid-sized equine or donkey rescues, equine therapy programs, or local animal welfare organizations—especially those based in Virginia or with a clear connection to the trustee or regional network.
Good Fit
- • Primary mission focused on equine/donkey welfare or allied animal rescue work.
- • Located in Virginia or strong operational ties to the Middleburg/VA region.
- • Needs general operating support rather than restricted project funding.
- • Established local reputation or an introduction to the trustee/network.
- • Organizational scale consistent with past grantees (small–medium operating budgets).
Geography
Grants reached organizations in five different states, but the latest year shows heavy concentration in Virginia (about 81% of dollars), indicating a primarily in‑state focus with occasional out‑of‑state awards.
Recipient Variety
The latest year funded ten distinct independent recipients (and prior years show 5 and 9), with several different types of equine rescues, sanctuaries, and therapy programs receiving support despite some dollar concentration among the largest grantees.
New Applicants
Behavioral evidence shows new recipients each year (six new grantees in the latest year), but the foundation's public materials and application settings state grants are to preselected organizations only, so unfamiliar applicants cannot rely on an open application process.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
