October 24, 2007 — The National Reined Cow Horse Foundation (NRCHF) has announced the creation of the Reined Cow Horse Crisis Fund. This fund has been created to help members of the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) in difficult times.
According to Cheryl Magoteaux of Pro Management, Inc., the NRCHA’s management team, the creation of the crisis fund came about, in large part, because of the efforts of NRCHA Board of Directors member and former NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro Champion Kathy Gould.
“We had the idea, but no one really took hold of this project before Kathy,” Magoteaux said. “With her enthusiasm and energy directed toward this cause, it began to take shape earlier this year.”
Approval by the Board of the National Reined Cow Horse Foundation came next. With that done, it was time to move forward.
“It had become apparent that this organization needed some way to allow members to help those in need–from a natural disaster striking a home or ranch, a personal tragedy or a health crisis,” Gould said.
But with the fund created, the real work begins.
“We now need all the help we can get in order to get this funded,” Gould said. “Because this is done through the NRCHF, all donations are fully tax deductible. In addition to helping build the crisis fund, you will also receive the benefits of foundation donations. This includes recognition in Stock Horse News and on our NRCHA.com website. Additional rewards are available, depending on accumulated lifetime donation amount.”
Both Magoteaux and Gould are enthusiastic about this new program.
“So many people, in recent years, had contacted the NRCHA and wanted a way to support and help when NRCHA members needed it,” Magoteaux said. “But there was no organized route for that. Now there is, thanks to Kathy, and we’re hoping people will be eager to fund this program.”
“We urge everyone to take a look at this new program and join in the ‘tradition of supporting those in need.’ We’ll have information on the web site and by request from the NRCHA Office as well as at the Snaffle Bit Futurity,” Gould said.
Funds distribution from the Reined Cow Horse Foundation Crisis Fund will be based on proven financial need arising from sudden hardship or disaster or from serious physical illness.
To be eligible for crisis fund assistance, an applicant must be an NRCHA member in good standing for at least two consecutive years, and be recommended for assistance by a Foundation Director, NRCHA Board Member or NRCHA Member.
For more information on the crisis fund or to donate, visit www.nrcha.com.
The NRCHA, the governing body of cow horse competition, is responsible for promoting the sport, insuring high standards of competition and educating members and the public about the history and tradition of the cow horse.
