Lexington, KY - Equestrian youth have a new opportunity to give back to the community - and a chance to win a $1,500 grant.

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Equestrians in Action program tracks youth volunteer hours that are aimed at improving the welfare of the horse or positively promoting equestrian sport. Sponsored by The EQUUS Foundation, the program encourages youth to give back to equestrian sport - at horse shows, equine promotional events, equine businesses or organizations, trade fairs, therapeutic riding clinics, horse rescue and 4-H events.

The participant with the most volunteer hours in 2011 (minimum of 150 hours) will earn a $1,500 grant for his or her education or training. All youth have the opportunity to earn one of three certificates depending on their participation level. Those who volunteer at least 50 hours will be awarded a Bronze certificate while youth who volunteer at least 100 hours will receive a Silver certificate. The highest level, the Gold certificate, will go to those who volunteer 150 or more hours. In addition, the top 10 participants will receive special "Top Ten" certificates.

Participants of USEF Equestrians in Action must be 21 years of age or younger at the start of the award year, which began December 1, 2010, and need a current USEF membership. In order to ensure a level playing field, volunteer hours must be given freely, without payment or other compensation. Participants may create an account, which will track their volunteer hours: https://usef.org/_IFrames/Youth/EquestriansInAction.aspx. The website will also show which participants are currently in the lead for Top Ten status.

For more information, contact Jennifer Mellenkamp at [email protected].

USEF Equestrians in Action is sponsored by The EQUUS Foundation. For volunteer opportunities and ideas, visit their website at www.equusfoundation.org and join the carrots4acause network.