The American Quarter Horse Association affiliate network is the vehicle for promoting the American Quarter Horse at the grassroots level. To ensure the growth of our industry, resources need to be directed toward innovative projects and ideas that encourage new people to become involved with horse activities. The AQHA Affiliate Achievement Award recognizes affiliates for these innovations.
The award winners are chosen based on how well the affiliate’s ideas fit into AQHA’s goals. The goals include creating opportunities for horse owners, bringing new people into the industry, encouraging increased memberships, registrations or transfers of ownership, protecting the integrity and/or welfare of the breed and enhancing youth development.
AQHA affiliates were divided into three divisions based on 2012 registered horse population. This leveled the field so affiliates were competing against other affiliates of the same size.
The Division I recipient of the Affiliate Achievement Award is the New Mexico Quarter Horse Association. NMQHA proposed a youth outreach program, which exemplifies many of AQHA’s goals for affiliate associations. The proposed program expands into three different age categories during a three-year commitment while recognizing and rewarding participation within AQHA and NMQHA.
The Division II award recipient is the Washington State Quarter Horse Association. WSQHA proposed an energetic activity called the WSQHA Adopt A Quarter Horse Program. The proposal involves purchasing two full-size American Quarter Horse mascots, which would be used to reach out to various communities in Washington. The expanded program will have a variety of supporting materials to help bring new people into the industry, encourage increased membership and enhance youth development.
The Division III recipient is the Maine Quarter Horse Association. MeQHA proposed a plan to expand its customer base beyond the traditional demographics. MeQHA plans to join hands with the Maine Equine Welfare Alliance. The two groups will adopt the slogan Presented by MEWA, Powered by MeQHA to develop a strong and cohesive network of horse owners and horse organizations. The new alliance will serve to attract more youth, as well as be an education tool.
AQHA wishes to recognize these affiliate associations for their innovative plans and ideas while promoting the American Quarter Horse and ensuring the growth and future of our industry.
To view a list of AQHA’s state, provincial and international affiliates, visit www.aqha.com.
