History of the NSBA Foundation

The NSBA Foundation began more than ten years ago to provide support to the horse community. 

A Community Supports Its Own

The NSBA Foundation was created after an association past president’s tragic experience. After watching the horse community come together to support him following a serious truck and trailer accident in 1997, NSBA Past President Steve Heckaman saw the need to create a fund that could coordinate these efforts into a nonprofit to benefit others. Through the creation of the “Crisis Fund” from this event, the association expanded his efforts to formally create the NSBA Foundation.

The National Snaffle Bit Association Foundation officially formed in 2009 as a registered 501(c)3 organization. Over the years it has expanded to provide a variety of programs to support not only members of National Snaffle Bit Association but benefiting the equine community as a whole.

A Mission to Help Horsemen and Women

The Foundation’s mission is to enhance the well-being of the show horse community through various charitable programs that benefit horse people, horses and the relationships they create.

Pillars of Work

The NSBA Foundation provides charitable programs that align with the five core pillars of work:

Animal Welfare

Enhancing the welfare and standard of care for all animals in the horse community

Crisis Fund

Caring for members of National Snaffle Bit Association in a time of crisis or disaster

Education

Creating educational and leadership opportunities for horsemen and horsewomen

Equestrians With Disabilities

Fostering the well-being and healing of people through their relationship with horses

Champion Fund

Developing and planning any other program that aligns with the ideals of NSBA and the Foundation