Dear IEA Riders, Coaches, Parents, Alumni, and Friends:
As 2018 comes to a close, we reflect back on this year with both joy and sadness. Joy for the thousands of accomplishments of our riders and teams. Joy for the milestones reached and friendships made. Joy for the horses who have carried us through countless lessons and shows. But we have sadness for IEA teams and barn owners affected by recent natural disasters. Sadness for riders experiencing financial hardship and having to leave their IEA teammates and barns. And sadness for coaches and who are laden with health issues, injuries and devastating life events.
It is because of these unfortunate circumstances that the IEA Benevolent Fund was developed –a way for IEA to support “our own” who are experiencing these adversities.
Even though the IEA is a non-profit organization with an affordable program for youngsters in grades 6-12 to compete,
the applications for financial assistance keep increasing. Additionally, consecutive years of widespread natural disasters have put an added strain on our support funding for coaches facing hardship.
We need your help to raise
$30,000
in order to fully commit to supporting the numerous applications for assistance we receive. We missed our goal last year. Because of the shortfall, the IEA transferred operational funds to meet the needs of financial aid grants to coaches and riders.
EVERY GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
A gift as little as $25 can help a rider afford a lesson. Any amount is appreciated to replenish the fund. As we all know, bonding with a horse is a life-changing, joyful experience that goes well beyond the show arena. By working together in our IEA “Community” we can give all members, regardless of financial burdens, an opportunity to continue in equestrian sport.
Please help us spread the
JOY
of this Holiday season through our competition year by making a financial contribution. You can donate online at
www.rideiea.org
or by sending a check to the
IEA National Office, PO Box 809, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
.
IEA is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation and your donation is tax-deductible.
THANK YOU!
Interscholastic Equestrian Association
Board of Directors and Staff
