What is the Arabian Horse Foundation?
The Arabian Horse Foundation is the charitable arm of the Arabian Horse Association and is a 501(c)(3) registered as the “Arabian Horse Association Charity” with the IRS. Donations are tax deductible. Restructured in 2007, the Foundation seeks funds to support youth and educational programs, equine research, and the rescue and rehoming of horses, particularly during catastrophic events. The Foundation has a Board of Directors separate from AHA and is independent with no financial links to AHA.
Where does funding come from?
The Foundation is supported solely by gifts from the Arabian horse community. Gifts can be individual donations, stock, and bequests. No funding comes from AHA or any other entity. The Foundation is donor driven and supported. Donations can be designated for any of the Foundation’s funding areas. Donations not specified for use are directed to the Foundation’s General Fund. Donations can be made on line, by check to the Foundation, and by checking the donation box when renewing your AHA membership. For more information, visit the web site at www.arabianhorsefoundation.org.
Why would someone donate to the Foundation?
The Arabian Horse Foundation is similar to other breed philanthropic entities. Giving to the Foundation signifies that one is proud of their breed association, feels a commitment to helping where needs exist, and is providing individual support and belief in the Foundation’s goals and missions. The Foundation Board, all volunteers from the Arabian horse community, is committed to using funds wisely. Consequently, there is no staff and very few expenses are incurred, allowing for almost 100 percent of donations going to worthwhile needs.
What is the track record for the Foundation?
Since 2007, the Foundation has given over $100,000 to help youth further their education, fund research projects at various nationally recognized colleges and universities, and to assist in rescue situations and where there is a need during catastrophic weather related occurrences. Through the generosity of the Foundation, over 100 youth have benefited, research projects have made significant gains in Lavender Foal Syndrome and Cerebellar Abiotrophy, and hay banks and rescue groups funded to assure the welfare of horses. There are several scholarships that youth can apply for, and applications are also available for research, and for rehoming. All applications are available on line at www.arabianhorsefoundation.org.
What is the application process and how are funding priorities established?
The Foundation solicits scholarship applications and grant applications throughout the year. Scholarships have an April 1 deadline. Announcement of scholarship winners typically is in May. Grant applications are reviewed in May and June, with grants awarded mid-summer. There are Advisory Panels made up of Board appointed volunteers well versed in the subject area. These Panels review the applications and in turn make recommendations to the Foundation Board. All applications are carefully reviewed with an eye toward assuring dollars are being spent judiciously and appropriately.