Green Country Fox Trotting Horse Association of Oklahoma
Youth Sponsorship Program – 2008
Mission Statement:
This program is intended to provide youth (with genuine interest in riding gaited horses) an opportunity to participate in horse shows, seminars, trail rides, play days and other events with the benefit of leadership of seasoned riders, with emphasis on sportsmanship, horsemanship and positive moral character and GCFTHA member support.
Funding:
This program referred to YSP will be supported by donations and class sponsorships that will are designated to be used on behalf of youth members. As all horse shows require sponsorships to be successful, the intent is to obtain normal class sponsorships with an optional double rate, (example, $25 class will cost $50 of which $25 will be designated to normal class sponsorship and $25 is designated to the YSP fund). All funds designated to YSP are dedicated to the support of youth participants for show expenses, refreshments, or special safety equipment (helmets, tack repair, etc.) as designated by GCFTHA Board of Directors.
Rules:
1. All moneys or donations to YSP are to be spent on youth expenses associated with riding programs approved by GCFTHA Board of Directors.
2. Individuals providing horses or transportation (to or from shows, rides or events) will be reimbursed only to the extent of expense incurred. No profits will be solicited or paid to volunteers.
3. YSP funding will not exceed availability or incur a negative balance. When funds are depleted the program will be placed in suspend until more funds are available.
4. GCFTHA appointed Youth Director (or Youth Committee Chairman) will be required to request pre-approval from the board of directors when expenses exceeding $100 are anticipated. Expense re-imbursement is not guaranteed.
5. Scholarships may be awarded to Youth based on application, interest level, character, and need. Applications for a show season may be submitted to the Youth Director and forwarded to GCFTHA Board of Directors for consideration.
6. Youth must obtain signature of consent from parent or guardian with release of liability and authorization to provide medical care if deemed necessary.
7. Parental involvement is encouraged but not mandatory. Adult member sponsorship is mandatory. Adult sponsors are considered responsible for the welfare of youth participants in event the parent or guardian is not present.
8. Youth are required to join GCFTHA in order to qualify for year end awards, associated news letter, seminars and other club member benefits.
9. Ownership or possession of a horse is not required. Volunteer horse owners will be solicited for youth riders, however, availability of a suitable horse is not guaranteed.
10. Youth participants are required to attend a safety workshop and orientation before participating.
11. Youth are subject to MFTHBA and GCFTHA show rules. Good conduct, positive character traits, and good sportsmanship are encouraged and expected.
12. Each Youth must obtain a program sponsor who is a GCFTHA member in good standing with the recommendation of the Youth Director or Youth Committee Chairman.
13. Youth Director may revoke YSP membership for reason of recklessness, antagonistic behavior, un-safe practices, cruelty or any other reason that exhibits a bad image for horses or the GCFTHA organization.
14. YSP rules may be amended at any time at the recommendation of the Youth Director or Youth Committee Chairman and approved by GCFTHA Board of Directors.
15. YSP Program may be discontinued at any time without notice by a vote of GCFTHA Board of Directors.