I too have a passion for horses. I have started a non profit and became exempt in 2007. I would be glad to offer some advice. I did not use an attorney to become a non profit. You are capable of doing that on your own and saving that expense. We have just had our first rodeo in our arena. We are located in Tennessee. Look up the West Tennessee Expo Center some time. It 's not much now but we have great hopes. Our plan is to complete the project by adding an indoor riding arena too. Hope this helps.