Y Ride Program







YMCA of Greater Springfield

Purpose
The Y Ride program incorporates the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility into the equine experience.  The purpose of the Y Ride program, created by Julie Costello, Executive Director of the YMCA of Greater Springfield, is to provide underserved youth and teens with the opportunity to develop personal growth of spirit, mind and body through exposure to the structure of horseback riding and equine care.

Program
Shallowbrook Equestrian Center designed an equine program that includes riding and horse care.  Other activities include playing with Shallowbrook’s nationally ranked Interscholastic Polo Team and a demonstration at Shallowbrook’s student horse show.  
Y Ride provides YMCA, community, and competitive sponsorships.

Y Ride Future
Y Ride looks to expand its program offerings in 2010, including additional participants, professional and horse care seminars, summer horsemanship clinics, field trips, and Horse Show fundraisers. 

Y Ride is fully funded through private and corporate donations. In order for Y Ride to continue, we need your help…the YMCA of Greater Springfield is now looking for tax-deductible donations for the 2010 Y Ride program as well as volunteers for a variety of duties including, riding lesson assistance and fundraising.

Donation Levels
Grand Champion $2,500+ (allows for one or more students to attend for a full year)
Champion $1,000-$2500
Reserve Champion $500-$1,000
Blue Ribbon $1-$500

Equipment Donations
Tax-deductible new or used riding apparel including: helmets, boots, riding pants, jackets, etc.

Team Y Ride Requirements
• Be between the ages of 6-18
• Submit an application describing desire to participate and meet financial guidelines

• Mandatory once a week attendance for entire seven-week session (no make-ups)
• Weekly half-hour or hour lessons dependent on riding level
• Create a journal entry after each lesson
• Uphold all core values of the YMCA including caring, honesty, respect and responsibility 

Studies have shown that many young people who live in poverty, or who feel disconnected, are more likely at risk to fail academically and socially.  These young people seek opportunities that provide structure, discipline, organization and motivation and are searching for guidance and positive role models. 

 Y Ride Scholarship Application   Shallowbrook Equestrian Center shallowbrook.com

People of all ages are drawn to horses because of their beauty, grace, power, majestic stature and the mystery of their noble being.

 
 “I  think if I became a horseman, I shall become a man on wings."
 ... Xenophon		  

YMCA Sponsorship Students are selected by the YMCA staff based upon level of interest and need. Transportation may be provided by the YMCA.

Community Sponsorship Full and part-sponsorships will be granted to applicants within the local community.  Students must provide their own transportation. The YMCA and SEC will partner with other organizations to expand the reach of the program into the community.

Competitive Sponsorships The YMCA and Shallowbrook Equestrian Center will nominate students who show competitive promise as well as a passion for horses and their care. These students will have the opportunity to attend designated competitions. Disciplines include hunt seat and polo. 
Thank you to our current supporters & volunteers:
United Professional Horseman's Association
Bob and Loek Neimeth
Cindy Barowsky
A. Boilard and Sons
Equestrian Outfitters
Jemimi Morgans - Granby Mass
Fox Meadow Farm - Granby Mass
Cheryl Cronin
Susan Petzold
Karen Mercier
Contact Us
Julie Costello
Executive Director of the YMCA of Greater Springfield
413/739-6951, ext. 181
jcostello@springfieldy.org

Elyse Dunbar
Y Ride Program Manager
860/749-0749