The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is constantly finding innovative ways to engage and support its community. In this week's episode of On the Rail Podcast, we get into the details of a pioneering initiative—the AQHA Amateur Ambassador Program.
Joined by Alyssa Ricker and Lorraine Luba, key figures in the program's development and execution, this episode sheds light on the program's objectives, progress, and future plans. In this blog post, we’ll provide an in-depth overview of the insights shared during the episode.
What is the AQHA Amateur Ambassador Program?
The AQHA Amateur Ambassador Program is designed to enhance the exhibitor experience by providing a warm and approachable resource for members new to the community or those attending a show for the first time. Ambassadors serve as on-ground guides offering information and support, all with the goal of strengthening connections within the AQHA community without interfering with their own participation in shows.
Program Origins and Goals
Alyssa and Lorraine highlighted the program's roots, which can be traced back to a challenge from former Amateur Committee Chairwoman Rebecca Halverson, who inspired committee members to think creatively about how to impact the industry positively. The resulting goals focused on increasing member recognition and value, ultimately leading to the creation of the Amateur Ambassador Program. The program falls under the committee’s third goal: to better serve the AQHA and its broader community.
How the Program Works
- Becoming an Ambassador:
Individuals interested in joining the program can sign up by contacting the official AQHA email. Once eligible as an amateur and affiliate member, they are provided with essential documents and a Code of Ethics to follow.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
Ambassadors are tasked with creating a welcoming environment at shows, providing logistical information, and directing rule-based queries to the appropriate officials like show stewards. They can volunteer at both AQHA-affiliated and other local events, playing a crucial role in demystifying the show experience for newcomers.
- Resources for Ambassadors:
Tools like Padlet (an online bulletin board) help ambassadors store and share valuable information, such as local amenities, show schedules, or emergency contacts. This resource is disseminated through QR codes distributed at events.
Learning from the Pilot Program
The pilot phase of the program was carried out across select states and events. During this phase, Ambassadors interacted with show attendees, gathering feedback that was instrumental in refining the program. The success of this phase confirmed the viability of the program and highlighted areas for improvement, contributing to an effective full-scale rollout.
Feedback from Participants
Both Jenna and Liz remarked on the positive responses from those who have participated as ambassadors. Participants praised the program for facilitating new friendships and allowing seasoned members to impart their knowledge to new or curious members. The feedback emphasized the sense of fulfillment that came from helping others feel more comfortable and welcome within the AQHA setting.
Future Outlook and Expansion
Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the program's reach beyond AQHA-specific events to non-affiliate shows and potential plans to tackle larger events, such as the Quarter Horse Congress. The focus remains on grassroots efforts at regional shows where newcomers often feel most in need of guidance.
Conclusion
The AQHA Amateur Ambassador Program represents an exciting opportunity for members to engage deeply with their community while fostering an inviting atmosphere for newcomers. The initiative not only supports personal growth for participants but also promotes the association's commitment to inclusivity and education.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're an experienced AQHA member or someone new to the community, the Amateur Ambassador Program is a wonderful way to connect with fellow enthusiasts and contribute positively to the equine industry. For those interested in joining or learning more, visit the AQHA website or reach out to the dedicated program email, amateur.ambassador@aqha.org. As this initiative continues to grow, it's clear that the AQHA is setting a high standard for community engagement in the world of equestrian sports.
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