Valley Riding, Inc.

Valley Riding Inc. has renewed its commitment to providing scholarship funding to deserving individuals and groups of students. We are writing at this time to ask you to consider a donation to help with this important initiative. 

Valley Riding Inc. (VRI) has awarded scholarship funding on a limited basis for several years. In 2010 the VRI board reaffirmed its commitment to providing scholarships, and renamed its scholarship fund in honor of Vern J. Hartenburg, the recently retired executive director of Cleveland Metroparks. Hartenburg’s leadership and vision was instrumental in establishing Valley Riding as a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization to serve riders of all ages and abilities. During his 22 year tenure with Cleveland Metroparks he was a true friend to VRI and supportive of all aspects of its mission, including its highly regarded therapeutic riding program. In addition, Hartenburg helped to integrate horseback riding within Cleveland Metroparks programming such as Youth Outdoors which provides outdoor experiences to inner-city Cleveland children.

VRI scholarships provide partial funding for all instructional programs including lessons, horse camp, pony camp and therapeutic riding for individuals and groups. Scholarship funds are awarded based on financial need and a demonstrated passion for learning to ride.  For example, scholarship assistance may be sought by a dedicated, long-time student that is facing temporary financial hardship due to a parent losing their job; or, as in the case of students from Youth Challenge (provider for students with physical challenges) which lost some of its grant funding for 2011. All applicants must complete VRI’s scholarship application and submit supporting documents.

We hope you will commit your support to the VRI Vern J. Hartenburg scholarship today.  Despite the affordability of VRI lessons, we have many students in need of temporary assistance.  Your support will help to ensure they are able to continue their training and further the unique mission of Valley Riding. For additional information, please contact 216-267-2525 or valleyriding@sbcglobal.net.