Saddle Up Scholars is a nonprofit organization that aims to promote equity and inclusion in the equestrian community by channeling the passion for horses into academic excellence, and we are committed to promoting social justice through educational opportunities. Saddle Up Scholars offers educational services and support to young horse enthusiasts who participate in existing equestrian programs serving at-risk youth. The K-12 students in our program are from backgrounds that are historically underserved (low-income, minority populations, first-generation, foster care) and are less likely to go to college and ultimately earn salaries that afford a living wage. Our goal is to empower these individuals with the skills and resources necessary to overcome challenges, build resilience, and succeed academically in order to secure a pipeline to college and/or career entry. Equestrian outreach programs across the country are teaching kids in underserved communities how to ride and take care of horses, helping to convey vital lessons about themselves and their own abilities. Riding horses helps improve a young person’s confidence by helping them learn to be responsible, cooperate with another living being, and not give up in the face of challenges. These lifelong lessons in horsemanship, coupled with academic assistance, help youth learn about being perseverant, empathetic, responsible, and composed, setting themselves up for success beyond the stable in their academic and career pursuits. We aim to empower youth by providing access to educational support, academic enrichment, and mentoring coupled with their pursuit of equestrian sports. We believe in the transformative power of education and the positive influence of equine-assisted activities. The unique approach of Saddle Up Scholars will give our students the skills to overcome challenges, embrace their potential, achieve professional fulfillment, and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
