The Organization

Our Mission

The Idlewood Equestrian Foundation (IEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to increase equity and accessibility in the horse world. Our mission is to bridge the economic gap between opportunity and household income through providing showing, training and educational opportunities to low-income equestrians and those from historically marginalized and underrepresented demographics. We strive to create well-rounded, compassionate, and knowledgeable horse people with the skills and experience to be successful far beyond the reaches of our program. Our ultimate goal is to cultivate knowledgeable equestrians who prioritize the welfare of horses, fostering a sport that places the horse at the forefront, even at the top levels.

This is accomplished through the generous and selfless support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, trainers, horse show organizations, and more.

 

“Horses change lives. They give our young people confidence and self-esteem. They provide peace and tranquility to troubled souls, they give us hope.”

— Toni Robinson

About Us

According to USEF, the member profile of a USEF member is:

  • Average income of $185,000

  • Average net worth of $955,000

  • Own an average of four horses

  • Compete at least six times per year

As of 2023, the median American income is just over $44,225, less than one-fourth of the average income of a member of the USEF. The USEF member profile is clear evidence that proof that equestrian sports are inaccessible to the average American. This inaccessibility is further exacerbated for people of color, who make up less than 11% of all USEF memberships.

We created IEF to bridge the fiscal gap between showing and riding opportunities and economic status and increase accessibility in the horse world. Through our programs, we aim to create well-rounded and compassionate equestrians by not only providing training and showing opportunities, but also by educating our participants about proper horse care, including nutritional needs, socialization and enrichment, hoof care, veterinary care, and more. We hope by creating knowledgable equestrians, we can help turn our sport into one that put the horse and their welfare first, even at the top levels. Because, at the end of the day, we are in this sport for the love of the horse.