American Quarter Horse Foundation
Richard Fields Philanthropy
The American Quarter Horse Foundation is a scholarship program through the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). American Quarter Horses are heavily muscled, compact horses famed for running the fastest for short distances over a straightaway. These horses, sometimes referred to as "cow" horses, are the horses used by cowboys to heard cattle. These horses compete in western horse sports such as roping events or cutting events.
The American Quarter Horse Foundation is an educational institution and scholarship fund that trains future professionals in the future of the American Quarter Horse industry, especially youth. The American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA) is the largest youth association for single-breed horse programs and competitions for youth 18-and-under.
According to the AQHA, The American Quarter Horse Foundation has awarded over $4.7 million in scholarship assistance to youth members. The scholarship assistance provided by the American Quarter Horse Foundation varies according to financial need, academic merit, involvement with the American Quarter Horse, and civic activities.
Richard Fields is an owner and breeder of the American Quarter Horse and a competitor in American Quarter Horse sporting events. In 2007, Richard Fields and The Fields Family Foundation funded the Youth Assistance Program, which provides scholarships for under privileged participants to compete in the AQHYA World Championship Show.