Access to Horses
Providing introductory riding experiences and horse education for individuals who would not normally have access to equestrian programs.
- Build confidence
- Teach responsibility
- Encourage empathy through animal care
Scholarship Essay Contest
🐴 Do you know a child who dreams of learning to ride but whose family may be experiencing financial hardship and not have access to riding lessons?
The Legacy Riders Equestrian Foundation is excited to announce our Scholarship Essay Contest! We will award three scholarships, each including one private riding lesson and three group riding lessons at Ride the West in Sherwood, Oregon.
Who can apply?
🐎 Children ages 7–17
🐎 Families experiencing financial hardship who would not otherwise be able to participate in riding lessons
🐎 Applicants must live within a reasonable driving distance of Ride the West and have reliable transportation to and from lessons.
Essay Topic:
✍️ "What Learning to Ride a Horse Would Mean to Me"
We want to hear directly from the child! Essays should be written entirely in the applicant's own words and should include the child's name and age.
📧 Email essays to: ourlegacyriders@gmail.com
🗓️ Submission Deadline: November 6, 2026
🏆 Scholarship recipients will be notified by: December 1, 2026
Scholarship recipients (with parent/guardian permission) will also be asked to participate in a photo session during their lessons so we can share their journey on the Legacy Riders website and social media to inspire others and demonstrate the impact of our supporters. 💙🐴
Our Mission
Your donation helps open the barn door to more riders.
The Legacy Riders Equestrian Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving lives through meaningful interactions with horses. We create opportunities for underserved youth and individuals—including those with disabilities, those facing financial or geographic barriers, and those who may have aged out of traditional programs—to experience confidence, connection, and personal growth through the bond between horse and rider.
Our Programs
While many of our programs focus on youth, the need for connection, confidence, and growth through horses does not end at a certain age. We create welcoming opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate, learn, and belong.
Inclusive Equestrian Experiences
Creating opportunities for individuals of all abilities to safely interact with horses in a supportive and welcoming environment.
- Foster connection
- Promote confidence
- Create welcoming experiences for all abilities
Community Barn Days
Welcoming gatherings that introduce families and community members to horses, horsemanship, and the mission of the foundation.
- Hands-on learning
- Community engagement
- Positive interactions with horses
Expanding Access
Helping bridge financial, geographic, and age-related barriers so more people can benefit from meaningful time with horses.
- Remove barriers
- Reach underserved individuals
- Extend opportunities beyond traditional programs
Through these programs, we hope to create a supportive path for more individuals to experience the confidence, connection, and personal growth that horses can inspire.
Community Supporters
We are grateful to the local businesses and organizations that help make our programs possible.
Wilco
Proud community supporter of Legacy Riders Equestrian Foundation.
Ride the West
Supporting local equestrian experiences and community connection.
Legacy Riders Equestrian Apparel
Providing ongoing support for the foundation’s programs and outreach.
Inspired by Faith
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
Our prayer is that this foundation will allow us to share a glimpse of Christ’s love with the world. If you are unable to make a financial donation at this time, your prayers would be greatly appreciated. God bless you!