What Matters? Volunteerism and Representation Matter

A wise quote: “Volunteers are not paid—not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.” And so it is with the ASHA. This is an organization that has an incredibly talented, though small, hearty group of professionals working for it. But for it to go beyond; to thrive, it will require the dedication, time, and talents of a broad, diverse group of volunteers. We need volunteers to populate committees. We need volunteers to work at horse shows. We need volunteers to work camps; to serve as Board members; to come up with and implement new ideas. We need volunteers. But not just any group of volunteers. We need a broad, diverse group of volunteers. Diversity of experience leads to diversity of thought. And diversity of thought leads to new and different thinking. And our breed needs new and different thinking to sustain and thrive. We need to find ways to bring more people all over the country to our breed. We have to find ways to make our shows and activities more fun and inviting. In order to do this, we need diverse thinking. According to Marty Schaffel, president of the ASHA, “This is perhaps the most challenging aspect of seating committees and a board -- achieving a balance that represents all Saddlebred disciplines and geographies. With the growing complexities of promoting our breed, growing our participation and helping our members achieve their goals, we need more committee and board members who represent a broader swath of interests and locations.” “Currently, for instance, the board has no representation west of Texas, and does not have true diversity,” said Joe O’Brien, chair of the Nominating Committee of Directors. You can read more about the changes to nominating members for the Board of Directors that can fulfill the diversity goals for the Board as laid out in our bylaws here: and you can nominate someone for the Board of Directors by filling out the form here. Nominations for the Board of Directors are open until October 18.  In addition, we underwent a thorough examination of the ways that we populate and charter committees to ensure that people have a fair and equal opportunity to work on a committee if they desire. People will have to apply each year to be on the committees so we can ensure fresh blood and fresh thinking while also relying on the continuity of volunteers. In order to apply for a committee for 2021, including the three new committees (Diversity & Inclusion, Operations, and Research), please follow the link here. . Applications for 2021 committees are being accepted until September 30. We are also undergoing a re-authoring of the Committee Charters that will be posted shortly to the ASHA web site. This will help you to understand the goals and responsibilities of each of the committees to make a more informed decision on your volunteer activities. Diverse and Sustainable. That’s what we need for our Board and our committees to help them to grow and thrive. What Matters? You Matter. Volunteer today.