The Reining Horse Foundation (RHF) is taking on a greater role with the National Reining Horse Youth Association (NRHyA), assuming administration of all scholarship programs, officer training and leadership development activities. The NRHyA is a program already funded through the RHF, which gives donors the opportunities to support youth programing with tax deductible donations to the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Promoted to head up the change is Claire Pound, RHF Sr. Coordinator of Development & NRHyA.
This change gives RHF greater guidance and coordination of reining’s youth programs. The changes are expected to increase communication with donors and members and those considering membership and support. There is a goal to increase NRHyA membership by 10 percent worldwide.
Pound, who previously served as RHF Development Coordinator, brings a wealth of experience to her expanded role. She has been closely involved with youth initiatives, including managing scholarship programs and leading the CINCH NRHyA Speaking Contest, making this transition a natural progression.
A lifelong participant in the reining industry, Pound earned her bachelor’s degree in Sport and Entertainment Management from the University of South Carolina and competed as a reiner on the NCEA equestrian team. While at UofSC, she was actively involved in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Student-Athlete Development department. Her passion for youth development and enhancing the athlete experience is central to her commitment to the NRHyA’s mission.
“This is such an exciting time for RHF and NRHyA,” said Pound. “I’m looking forward to not only growing our youth membership but also making sure our current youth reiners are getting the most out of their memberships through leadership opportunities, scholarship access, and lasting connections.”
The RHF team is united in its support of the NRHyA’s guiding values of Friendship, Leadership, and Scholarships and remains dedicated to showing youth members how to engage meaningfully with the reining community, both inside and outside the arena.
“The Reining Horse Foundation mission is caring for and honoring our reining community, with youth leadership development and scholarship among our core programs,” said RHF President Tim Anderson. “We are proud to have Claire Pound leading this effort. She has a special connection for what the program means in the lives of youth. Along with RHF Executive Director Leslie Baker and Claire, the Board of Directors looks forward to helping grow youth membership and taking the program to new heights.”
