Lincoln, NE - Olympian Carol Lavell has said, “For most Young Riders, obtaining financial support becomes the ultimate hurdle.” Through The Dressage Foundation's new 'Lessons in Fundraising and Giving' Program, riders will learn valuable tools that will help them throughout their equestrian careers.

Program participants will learn how they can raise the financial support necessary to continue their education and career. Participants will hear from people who have “been there, done that” as well as trained fundraising professionals. The program will teach participants to be comfortable and competent with fundraising.

The internet-based program, taught through secure websites, launches March 21 to a select invitation-only group of young riders. Lessons will be held twice per week for six weeks. Upon completion of the program, participants will have the tools necessary to talk effectively with potential donors about their goals, their achievements, their passion for the sport AND how the donor can help them on a path to success!

Dates and times for subsequent sessions of the ‘Lessons in Fundraising and Giving’ Program will be determined upon the conclusion of the inaugural session and will be open to all who are interested. If you are interested in applying, contact Melissa Filipi at [email protected]. Program participants will pay a tuition fee and be required to raise matching funds using the skills and techniques taught during the program.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be eligible to apply for future training grants from a designated fund at The Dressage Foundation. Completion of the program does not guarantee receipt of a grant.

Karin Offield and John F. Boomer (recently retired President and CEO of The Dressage Foundation) have worked diligently on the pioneering development of this creative program during the last two years. Said John Boomer, “Fund raising knowledge is needed by almost all equestrians, no one is currently teaching it, and who better to do so than The Dressage Foundation whose very business is to raise money, manage it, and give it away.”

The Dressage Foundation

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to supporting and advancing the sport of dressage. The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants and scholarships to dressage riders of all ages and levels. For more information, please visit www.dressagefoundation.org.

ENDS