It's World Donkey Day!

Today we reflect on why donkeys matter.

- They power economies.
- They transport clean water to families.
- They carry children to school.
- They help farmers grow and sell their crops.
- They provide hope in places where hope is hard to find.
- They are lifelines for the most vulnerable communities.

Brooke USA is committed to a world where every working equine is treated with kindness and care.

On World Donkey Day and every day, let’s champion the dignity of donkeys—and the humans who depend on them.

Transforming Lives—One Hoof at a Time
Celebrating World Donkey Day with Impact from the Brick Kilns of India

In the heart of Uttar Pradesh, where dusty brick kilns rely on hardworking equines to move sunbaked bricks, Kushal Kumar saw an opportunity to build a better future—for his family and his mules.

Kushal, a father of two, depends on seasonal kiln work and his two working equines, Munna and Gola. But the lack of proper hoof care in the region caused frequent lameness, cutting into his already limited income.

With support from Brooke India, Kushal trained as a hoof trimmer and learned to build lightweight saddle trees—two critical tools for improving equine welfare. What began as a spark of interest became a sustainable livelihood. Today, he services 15 kilns in nearby villages, improving the health of working equines and earning a steady income to support his family.

This is the power of your support. When you give to Brooke USA’s Brick Kilns 360 Project, you’re not just helping donkeys and mules—you’re helping entire communities stand on stronger ground.

Help us continue this life-changing work. Please make a gift today.

DONATE TODAY

Brooke USA Foundation Announces New Board Members

Brooke USA's new board members are esteemed leaders with a passion for improving the health, welfare, and productivity of working horses, donkeys, and mules, and have been selected to serve alongside an already impressive list of equestrian and business influencers who guide Brooke USA’s success.

Vicky Busch owns Busch Sporthorses in Folsom, LA, where she trains, teaches, and breeds for dressage. A FEI/Grand Prix/Gold Medal Rider, trainer and competitor, Vicky has a passion for education and a desire to share that knowledge with her students. Vicky is the proud parent of Muli, AKA Slate, Brooke USA’s very own mule ambassador who, with his charm and natural charisma, helps bring awareness for the plight of millions working equines.

Vicky is a long-time supporter of Brooke USA, dating back to 2016. Over the years, she has supported a myriad of international projects, including shelter construction in Ethiopia, water access provision in Kenya, disaster preparedness in Senegal, brick kiln improvements in India, and enhanced husbandry in Cuba. Last year, with a matching gift to raise funds for the organization, she led the month-long celebrations of Dorothy Brooke’s birthday, founder of Brooke USA and the Brooke family of charities worldwide. She has already to committed to honor Mrs. Brooke again this June, especially in view of Brooke USA’s 10th Anniversary.

Vicky recently noted that “there is nothing more satisfying than to know that my contributions and Muli’s volunteer work are having a major impact on the lives of those who need it most – human and animal – in some of the poorest communities on earth.”

Laura Rombauer lives in St. Helena, CA, where she owns the iconic destination boutique Vintage Home Napa Valley. She also recently launched Maison Marigold; a new luxurious small-batch women’s resort wear brand inspired by the wanderlust of travel. Laura has over 40 years of experience in design and the home industry business. Laura and her family are long-time animal lovers and supporters of many animal welfare organizations. They have six rescue dogs at home along with numerous rescue horses and miniature horses at the family farm.

Laura returns to the Brooke USA Board after a one-year hiatus. Previously, she had served as Board Vice Chair and before that as Secretary. She is a long-time supporter of Brooke USA having learned about the organization 10 years ago at an equestrian show in Kentucky where her daughter Ransome was competing. Since then, she has traveled to India to see the work first-hand and most recently, with her family, committed to a four-year funding program of 100 coal mines in Pakistan, benefitting 9,000 working equines and 5,600 owners. Working conditions in coal mines are exploitative, leading to compromised health and welfare for both the workers and their equines.

Laura noted that she “had missed working with the extraordinary Board members and staff of Brooke USA whose passion and dedication are making a true dent toward better animal welfare practices and improved livelihoods for humans.”

Brooke USA’s Board of Directors is currently led by Dr. James “Jim” Hamilton, who noted about the recent Board appointments that, “reaching those with a passion for the equestrian sport across the country remains a priority for this nonprofit, as we work together to expand geographically, reach more supporters and grow Brooke USA for the benefit of people and animals in need.” “Our newest Board members embody the spirit of Brooke USA and bring talent, expertise and energy to the table,” stated Emily Dulin, Chief Executive Officer. “We are very fortunate to have them by our side as we continue to increase brand recognition and build a strong foundation of donors and friends throughout the country.”

Brooke USA’s 2025 Board of Directors is comprised of:

Officers:

Board Chair
James “Jim” Hamilton, DVM; Southern Pines, NC

Vice Chair
Julia Wilson, DVM; Stillwater, MN

Treasurer
Holly Sampson; Duluth, MN

Secretary
Lisa Bair; Wellington, FL

Chair Emeritus
David Jones; Asheboro, NC

Directors-at-large:

Mark Beausoleil – West Palm Beach, FL

Vicky Busch – Folsom, LA

Tami Fratis - Ocala, FL

Sally Frick - Campobello, SC