YouthRiders HHarrel 072016

AYHC Invites Proposals for 2017 Symposium Presentations

YouthRiders HHarrel 072016The AYHC Symposium fosters growth among youth members of the equine industry. • Photo by Hannah HarrelThe American Youth Horse Council (AYHC) invites proposals to speak at the 40th Annual AYHC Symposium, which will be held April 21-23, 2017 in Wakefield, Massachusetts. This event presents an opportunity for adult and student leaders in the youth horse industry to come together to learn, network, share ideas and grow. The event will include tours of the New England horse industry, live demonstrations, parade of breeds and workshops focused on kids and horses.

Proposals must be submitted electronically by email no later than September 15, 2016. Complete guidelines and form are available at www.ayhc.com. Speakers are responsible for their own registration fees, travel, lodging and other expenses.

Four audiences will be represented:

– Adult Leaders of Youth: mostly volunteers who work directly with youth in the field

– Youth Industry Professionals: those employed in the youth horse industry (such as extension specialists and breed   association youth program coordinators)

– Teen Leaders: leaders aged 14-18

– Collegiate Leaders: college students enrolled in equine programs 

The non-breed/discipline specific curriculum throughout the symposium offers equine knowledge that transfers from the book to the barn, providing take-home tools to teach youth about safe and effective horsemanship. Above all, the Symposium connects participants with resources, referrals, and networking to help kids connect through horses. Workshops may be presented in a variety of formats including lectures, discussions, forums, panels or hands on activities. Preference will be given to interactive workshops.