West Virginia University’s chapter of the Collegiate Horsemen’s Association
recently raised $800 for equine disaster relief and captured first place in the
American Collegiate Horsemen’s Association inaugural philanthropy challenge.
As a member of the national nonprofit organization, WVU’s chapter saw an opportunity
to have a positive impact on the equine industry, opting to donate funds raised
to the United States Equestrian Federation Disaster Relief Fund.
“With the recent wildfires in California and other weather related emergencies across
the country fresh in our minds, our chapter was happy to participate in the challenge
since we knew the money in this fund goes directly to care for and treat horses
impacted by the natural disasters,” said
Crystal Smith, advisor for the student organization and teaching associate
professor of animal and nutritional sciences.
The USEF Disaster Relief Fund supports veterinarians and emergency organizations
that care for horses injured or displaced as a result of natural disasters.
The national association added $1,000 to the amount raised by the organization, creating
a total impact of $1,800. The chapter was recognized at the ACHA national convention
and was awarded a traveling trophy.
The student organization plans to defend its title next year and continue to support
the USEF Disaster Relief Fund.
The American Collegiate Horsemen’s Association is a nonprofit organization that brings
together members of various equine disciplines to share in education and community
service.
-WVU-
acc/06/6/19
CONTACT: Lindsay Willey, Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
304.293.2381; Lindsay.Willey@mail.wvu.edu