TAKE PRIDE IN
Introduction
The Department of Interior has
reestablished the Take Pride in America (TPIA) Program, a national partnership
established by President Ronald Reagan to encourage volunteers to initiate
programs to improve our parks, recreation areas, refuges and cultural and
historical sites. Outstanding volunteer
efforts will be recognized and rewarded with awards, including Presidential
recognition.
Background
The program was originally
established by the Department in 1985 but was de-emphasized in 1993, although
several states continued awards programs and other outdoor efforts. The
American Horse Council is a Charter Partner in the initiative.
The Take Pride in American Program has established a State Coordinator in
each state so that people can have their event recognized and learn about other
events and activities in which they can participate. We suggest the first step be to call and
introduce yourself and your organization to your State Coordinator and discuss
your activities and what you might want to do.
There are a number of administrative matters that must be satisfied to
participate, but they are not overly burdensome. We encourage all members to make
contact with their State Coordinator as soon as possible to increase the
profile of the equine community in their state.
This
is an opportunity for AHC members and recreational riders to take part in a
worth-while federal initiative that offer benefits to the industry too. Additional information can also be found at
the Take Pride in
AHC Position
The AHC believes that our members
and recreational riders are already involved in many volunteer activities that
would qualify as Take Pride events.
These activities could fit nicely into the reinvigorated Take Pride
effort and offer several benefits. This is an opportunity for recreational
riders to show our federal officials, who make decisions about access to trails
for riders, and the public how large the industry is, how active it is in
volunteering and what we do to improve recreational opportunities.