The American Morgan Horse Association has announced the creation of its Mentor Network website, http://morganmentornetwork.wix.com/amha, a free program for amateurs and professionals alike. Everyone is welcome to use this website as a tool to communicate with each other, to brainstorm ideas and to increase their knowledge about Morgans, and horsemanship skills. The goal of the Mentor Network is to bring as many people together as possible to support each other's riding, driving, and equine business endeavors.
The idea for the Mentor Network developed from a strategic planning initiative to increase participation and engagement among Morgan horse enthusiasts. Further, the idea was propelled by the Young Adult Alliance. The breed is fortunate to have many talented young trainers working hard to start their businesses and to help sustain the future of the breed. Many of these young trainers have expressed their need for more resources on running their business and managing their finances at the barn. AMHA realized that it could create an all-in-one resource guide for not only young trainers, but for youth, amateur riders, or any horse owners who want to learn more about the topic of their choice.
Here's how it works: Select a mentor from the list of volunteers and email them to ask a question. This program is voluntary, so they'll respond as soon as they are able. Once the conversation is started, it's up to you and the mentor to continue, via phone, email, or even to set up a lesson or teaching session. One might choose to email them and ask what type of accounting software they use at their barn, what brand of saddle they prefer for endurance rides, or how to create a balanced work schedule for young horses in training.
If you and your mentor have a great talk that others can benefit from, send AMHA your questions and answers to add to its FAQ page. From carriage driving to choosing the right bit for a Western horse, the mentors are eager to talk and answer questions. There is no such thing as a wrong question or answer.
AMHA is still looking for more mentors. Check out the fantastic array of topics and see if one jumps out. Do you feel comfortable talking about saddle seat horses or trail riding? Do you love talking about your equestrian art or how you decided to become a judge? Become a mentor and share your knowledge.
Contact Katie Hodges at AMHA at (802) 985-4944 ext. 401 or Katie@morganhorse.com to sign up or to add your question to our FAQ page.
-- via AMHA