Best Benefit Ever: An Easy Transition for Horse Lovers

What is it? The American Quarter Horse Association  (opens in a new tab) (AQHA) has a tier of membership  (opens in a new tab) targeted exclusively at younger horse aficionados, with scholarships, youth excellence seminars, riding programs, and other events. But, as those riders get older, they move beyond the youth programs, and that transitional period can result in some lapsed memberships. To retain as many riders as possible, the AQHA offers American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA) members a four-year full membership for the price of three years  (opens in a new tab).

Why it works: As every association knows, getting members to renew their memberships is a challenge, but getting them to learn about and fill out the paperwork for a brand-new tier of membership after their previous status has lapsed? That kind of ask is even more difficult, so AQHA has added extra incentive to AQHYA members looking to advance their relationship with the organization.

Other benefits: While riding events, trail rides, insurance, and an America’s Horse magazine subscription  (opens in a new tab) help, AQHA has also taken a serious stance on advocacy for the horse industry, establishing its own political action committee  (opens in a new tab) in support of the cause. And for those who want a more local touch to their membership, numerous state affiliate associations  (opens in a new tab) offer dozens of programs.

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