American Paint Horse Foundation
The American Paint Horse Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization under section 501(c)(3). Our foundation supports educational programs that encourage learning and growth. We work to preserve equine heritage, ensuring its cultural and historical value inspires future generations. We also aim to expand equine-assisted services, using the bond between humans and horses to offer therapy, learning and horsemanship to benefit individuals and communities. Through these efforts, we aim to make a lasting difference for both people and horses, fostering a better future.
Our Mission
To enhance educational programs, preserve equine heritage and expand equine-assisted services.
APHF Initiatives
We are committed to preserving and promoting the legacy of the American Paint Horse through education. As one of the core pillars of our foundation, education is essential for fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of the roles horses have played in our history and helps shape the future of equine care, training and advocacy. By investing in education, we ensure that future generations carry forward the legacy of the horse.
We are committed to preserving and celebrating equine heritage, which is vital to understanding the historical and cultural significance of horses in shaping our societies. Through our educational and equine heritage initiatives, we aim to preserve the legacy of the American Paint Horse and help ensure all horses continue to inspire future generations and remain an integral part of our cultural heritage.
Enhance Equine-Assisted Service
We are dedicated to enhancing lives through cultivating the powerful bond between horses and humans. Equine-assisted services offer therapeutic, educational and personal-growth opportunities that benefit individuals and communities. By harnessing the unique connection between horses and humans, programs provide healing, promote emotional well-being, and foster learning and development for those in need. These programs aim to provide life-changing experiences that empower individuals to overcome challenges and improve their quality of life.
Upcoming Events
| June 20 | Youth Team Tournament | APHA brings fun and camaraderie to the World Show through this unique team tournament—a three-part competitive series that tests teamwork, equine knowledge, and drive. Open to all youth ages 10–18, no horse is required to participate. |
| June 20 | Scholarship Workshop | This informative session is designed to help students and their families navigate the scholarship application process and learn more about educational opportunities supported by the Foundation. |
| June 22 | horseIQ Youth Showdown | A team-based, quiz-style competition that challenges youth on their equine knowledge while fostering education and sportsmanship. |
| June 25 | Two Ravens Veteran Slide Contest | This inspiring event pairs ten veterans with professional reining horse trainers. In the weeks leading up to the competition, veterans train with their partners to learn skills like sliding stops and spins. On event day, they ride top-level reining horses and compete as teams, with performances judged to determine the winner. |
| June 26 | Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony | A beloved tradition that celebrates the horses and individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Paint Horse breed and APHA’s legacy. |
| July 3 | NSBA Heroes on Horses Event | This event, hosted in partnership with the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA), gives disabled veterans and active-duty wounded warriors the chance to compete in an Equestrians with Disabilities (EWD) class suited to their individual needs. Before the competition, we will hold a parade in the arena to recognize the veterans. We invite community members, veteran groups, and supporters join us in the stands to cheer on these incredible competitors. |
Learn More
Scholarships
We empower Youth through both academic scholarships and competition-based scholarships awarded annually at the APHA World Championship Show. APHF collects, maintains and distributes these scholarship funds to APHA Youth. Join our mission and pledge your support.
Hall of Fame
The APHA Hall of Fame honors the people and Paint Horses who have made a lasting impact on the association and breed. Nominations are accepted annually, and the APHA Hall of Fame nominating committee makes recommendations for new inductees each year. Inductees are honored at our annual Hall of Fame & Awards Banquet.
Donate
Your support is vital to help fulfill the APHF mission to enhance educational programs, preserve equine heritage and expand programs supporting equine-assisted services.