The American Paint Horse Foundation (APHF) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) have forged an innovative partnership designed to benefit those who wish to further their education, and will provide scholarship assistance to potential instructors of therapeutic riding beginning Jan. 1 2013. While open to anyone with skills in equine management, horsemanship, instruction, teaching methods, and disabilities, preference for scholarships will be awarded to medical professionals.

Founded in 1969 to promote equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs, PATH Intl.’s more than 4,300 instructors have helped more than 54,000 children and adults find strength and independence through involvement with horses. The average cost of registration for a PATH Intl. certification workshop and test, which takes place over three days, is $800. The American Paint Horse Foundation seeks to assist individuals interested in certification through the application and acceptance of one-time, $800 scholarships.

The APHF scholarship is open only to first-time applicants and all applicants must be APHA members and PATH Intl. members in good standing. Additionally, candidates must meet the PATH Intl. criteria to become a Registered Level Instructor In Training and have completed at least 10 hours volunteering at a PATH Intl. premier accredited center.

Two $800 scholarships will be awarded annually by the American Paint Horse Foundation, whose primary mission centers on heritage and education. Formed in 2005, the foundation is chartered as a non-profit corporation