The Ontario Equestrian Federation is now accepting applications for its OEF Youth Bursary Program, which helps deserving youth reach their equestrian goals.
Each year the OEF proudly offers a minimum of five $1,000 bursaries to junior members and is currently accepting applications. The OEF Youth Bursary program is aimed at supporting young riders/drivers and horse persons of all disciplines who are OEF members and full-time high school students where financial resources and/or personal hardship is a significant impediment to reaching their equestrian goals.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for up-and-coming equestrians who need a bit of help,” says Dianne Graham, executive director of the Ontario Equestrian Federation. “Let the OEF help you develop your skills to be the best horseperson you can be. It could be a youth bursary recipient standing on the Olympic podium some day!
The program is open to all junior members of the OEF between the ages of 14 and 17 as of Jan. 1 of the bursary year. Riders, drivers and equestrians of all abilities and disciplines are eligible to apply. This program is intended to reach those who experience significant personal or financial hardships that have prevented them from reaching their equestrian goals. Applications have also been received in the past from members who wish to use their bursary funds to help them cover the cost of post-secondary education in equine studies.
The number of bursaries awarded each year is based on the total amount of fundraising monies received through the preceding year, with a top up from the OEF general budget. Last year, six OEF Youth Bursaries of $1,000 each were awarded. The number of 2015 bursaries that will be awarded will be determined at the close of the year, and announced shortly thereafter.
The OEF board of directors approved the establishment of a youth bursary program in 2000 and it has been supporting a number of young riders every year since. To date, 130 OEF Youth Bursaries have been awarded.
For more information about the OEF Youth Bursary program, or to download the application form, visit www.horse.on.ca. Applications are due Friday, Dec. 5, 2014.
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