American Ranch Horse Association Scholarship Deadline: December 31

American Ranch Horse Association youth members who plan to attend a college or trade school next year are invited to apply for a $500 academic-based scholarship for the 2010-2011 school year. Applications will be accepted in the ARHA office until December 31, 2009.

To qualify for an ARHA scholarship, an applicant must be a current ARHA member in good standing, have been an ARHA member for a minimum of two years, and verify their intention to attend college or a post-secondary educational program.

Scholarship applications consist of: – A completed ARHA application form – Current school transcripts containing the applicant’s current scholastic average – A letter of recommendation from the secondary-school principal, advisor or faculty member – A letter of recommendation from an active member of the applicant’s regional ARHA charter club (A letter from a club officer or board member is preferable.) – A brief essay indicating the importance of higher education, career goals and personal insights about the need for the scholarship – An in-person or telephone interview during the ARHA National Convention in February 2010 – A photo of the applicant

An application form and further application details are available on the ARHA website. The scholarship winner will be announced at the ARHA World Championship Show in Murfreesboro, Tenn., in June 2010.

In addition to this academic-based scholarship, ARHA grants a $500 Youth High-Point Scholarship to the ARHA youth member who earns the most points in competition from January 1 through December 31. There is no application process for the High-Point Scholarship, as all members’ and horses’ points are automatically tracked by ARHA. This scholarship winner will be announced at the ARHA National Convention in Lexington, Ky., in February 2010.

The first ARHA Youth Scholarships were awarded in 2009. The scholarship fund has been developed since ARHA’s founding through auctions, raffles, various fundraising projects undertaken by ARHA and charter clubs, and individual and corporate donations. ARHA greatly appreciates everyone who’s donated to the Youth Scholarship Fund and contributed to the success of its youth members.

Formed in 2004, the American Ranch Horse Association promotes the abilities of the all-around versatile working horse in a positive atmosphere where western tradition is genuinely honored. Rapidly growing with more than 7,000 members, ARHA hosts competitions, clinics and educational events throughout the year.

For more information about the ARHA scholarship, visit www.americanranchhorse.net/scholarship.htm or call 606-872-2742.