Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) has announced the Award of Merit recipients honored at state breeders’ association award ceremonies in June.

The Award of Merit is presented to individuals or organizations working to provide a better life for Thoroughbreds or the people working with them, either on the backstretch or on the farm. Both achievements are reflective of TCA’s mission to help Thoroughbreds and the people who care for them. Subsequent award of merit winners will be announced monthly.

Michele Rodriguez was honored at the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association’s Awards Banquet on June 11, Remember Me Rescue was named the recipient of the TCA Award of Merit by the Texas Thoroughbred Association on June 18, and New Start for Horses/Pennsylvania Horsemen’s Protective and Benevolent Association (PA-HBPA) Horse Adoption Program by the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association on June 24.

Rodriguez is described as the driving force behind the Louisiana Horse Rescue in New Orleans. As a founding member and the primary fundraiser for the nonprofit organization, Rodriguez works on behalf of all its equine residents