By applying below, you agree to the following terms.

Equine Scholarship Program
Scholarship Policy

Organization: Root'd in Hope
Program: Equine Assisted Activities Scholarship Program
Effective Date: May 1, 2026

1. Purpose

The Root'd in Hope Equine Assisted Activities Scholarship Program exists to provide scholarships for eligible individuals to participate in equine-assisted activities for the purpose of mental health wellness. The organization aims to assist individuals facing addiction, trauma and mental health challenges, as well as for families caring for individuals with these same challenges.

2. Eligible Uses of Scholarship Funds

Scholarship funds may be used for:

• Equine Assisted Activities
• Trauma-informed equine programs
• Mental health equine assisted activities sessions with licensed facilitators and certified coaches
• Program participation fees charged by approved equine facilities

Scholarships may not be used for:

• Travel expenses
• Equipment or riding gear
• Non-therapeutic riding lessons
• General recreational horseback riding

3. Eligible Applicants
Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated financial need
• A therapeutic need for equine activities
• Participation in a recognized equine program or provider
• Submission of a complete scholarship application

Priority may be given to:
• Individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, or mental health unwellness
• Families with limited financial resources
• Individuals recommended by a licensed therapist,counselor,pastors or healthcare center

4. Scholarship Award Amount

Scholarships may cover:

• Full program cost
• Partial program cost

Typical scholarship ranges may include:

• $355 – $2,800 per recipient depending on program cost and available funding.

Scholarship awards are dependent on available charitable funds and board approval.

5. Payment of Funds

Scholarship funds will generally be paid directly to the equine activity provider or program, rather than to the individual applicant. This ensures funds are used exclusively for Equine Assisted Activities

6. Application Process

Applicants must submit:

  1. Completed Scholarship Application Form

  2. Description of therapeutic need

       3.     Program information from equine instructor 

         4.    Optional recommendation from therapist, teacher, or healthcare provider

Applications may be submitted:

• Online
• By email

7. Review Process

Applications will be reviewed by the Root'd in Hope Scholarship Committee or Board of Directors. Evaluation factors include:

• Therapeutic need
• Financial need
• Program suitability
• Availability of funds

The organization may request additional information before making a decision.

8. Award Notification

Applicants will typically be notified within 2–4 weeks of submission.

Scholarship recipients may be asked to:

• Confirm enrollment in the equine program
• Provide feedback or a brief program update
• Allow Root'd in Hope to share anonymized impact stories

Participation in storytelling is optional.

9. Non-Discrimination Policy

Root'd in Hope does not discriminate based on:

• Race
• Religion
• Gender
• Disability
• National origin
• Sexual orientation

Scholarships are awarded solely based on program criteria and available funding.

10. Program Changes

Root'd in Hope reserves the right to modify scholarship policies, eligibility requirements, or award amounts as necessary to ensure responsible stewardship of charitable resources.

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