AQHYA Members Embark on National Community Service and Fundraising Project, Heroes For Horses

The American Quarter Horse Youth Association is teaming up with the American Quarter Horse Foundation to become “Heroes for Horses.” The two groups are embarking on a national community service and fundraising project to support the important equine research studies that take place at veterinary schools across the country.

The Foundation-funded equine research projects cover a diverse range of research related to the health, welfare and utility of the horse. For example, current projects focus on controlling and treating laminitis, the study of immunizations and vaccinations for infectious diseases, as well as genetic and musculoskeletal injury treatment.

The goal is to build awareness nationally, regionally and through local affiliates of the importance of research, the need for funding and to introduce young people to a career in the field of equine research.

Local affiliates will raise funds for equine research and provide local community service hours for youth members. Points will be awarded for the amount of money raised and community service hours completed through local affiliates. The points will be leveled by the number of members in each affiliate group.

The top three “leveled” affiliates will receive points toward educational awards.

The top individual national winners will receive trips to the 2014 Bank of America Youth Excellence Seminar and Built Ford Tough AQHYA World Championship Show and be interviewed in AQHA magazines.

The Heroes for Horses campaign, educational awards and trips to YES and Ford Youth World are generously underwritten by Deborah Hearst and Angela Wade.

“We greatly appreciate the support of Deborah and Angela,” said Chris Sitz, senior director of the American Quarter Horse Foundation. “Their passion for horses and generosity contribute to the success of this nation-wide community service and fundraising project.”

Additional support for educational awards made possible by the Burns Family Foundation.

To learn more about Heroes for Horses, visit www.aqha.com/heroesforhorses.

AQHA News and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more news and information, follow @AQHAnews on Twitter, watch the AQHA Newscast and visitwww.aqha.com/news.