2024 Bridge Up Giddy Up Program Report
SchoolSeed Foundation's BridgeUP GiddyUP initiative represents a revolutionary approach to youth development through equestrian training. Established in 2021, this program stands out as Memphis' only equestrian initiative specifically targeting inner-city youth. It aims to bridge racial and economic gaps in the equestrian community while providing comprehensive training and personal development opportunities for students at Havenview Middle School and Whitehaven High School.
Background and Rationale
The Equestrian Divide: Historically, equestrian sports have been characterized by predominantly white and affluent participation. The average household income of members within the United States Equestrian Federation stands around $185,000, showcasing a barrier of entry due to the high costs associated with horseback riding.
Program Access and Inclusion: In response, BridgeUP GiddyUP offers a completely free program for selected students aged 11-18 from the Whitehaven community in Memphis, Tennessee. The program provides a minimum of two horseback riding lessons weekly, transportation to the Southern Blues Equestrian Center, healthy meals, and additional mentorship activities.
Program Goals and Execution
Redefining Pathways to Equestrian Success: Unlike the traditional event-based progression in horseback riding, which often excludes under-resourced individuals, BridgeUP GiddyUP employs a merit-based testing framework aligned with classical riding standards. This model emphasizes skill development and readiness over economic capability.
Holistic Development: Beyond riding skills, the program integrates fitness testing, health education, and group activities to foster broader personal and social development. Skills such as teamwork, communication, and responsibility are cultivated, preparing students for various future career paths both within and beyond the equestrian world.
Impact and Achievements
Immediate Outcomes: Since its inception, the BridgeUP GiddyUP program has profoundly impacted participating students. There is notable improvement in their confidence, health, and academic performance. Both students and parents report a heightened interest in higher education, indicating the program's significant influence on their life perspectives and aspirations.
Community and Cultural Contributions: The program's end-of-year showcases not only highlight individual achievements but also bring the sport to a broader audience, promoting diversity and inclusion within the local equestrian community.
Looking Forward
As the BridgeUP GiddyUP program progresses, it aims to expand its reach and depth. The ongoing success story of the participants serves as a testament to the potential transformative impacts of integrating sport and educational opportunities in unconventional settings. The vision extends beyond immediate educational outcomes, aspiring to instill a lifelong passion and skill set that participants can carry into their futures.
Conclusion
SchoolSeed Foundation’s BridgeUP GiddyUP is more than just an equestrian program; it is a pioneering initiative in educational equity and youth empowerment. It challenges socioeconomic barriers and reshapes the narrative around youth development in Memphis. As the program matures, it continues to promise a legacy of diversity, accessibility, and opportunity, ensuring that the future of horse sport in Memphis is as vibrant and inclusive as the community it serves.