The Transformative Power Of Purpose-Driven Philanthropy In Youth Equestrian Sports
The Evolving Role of Philanthropy in Youth Sports
Three Mares, founded by California-based horsewoman Carrie Kehring, takes a unique approach to philanthropy, aiming to make a significant, positive impact on equestrian sports for youth. While most companies consider philanthropy as an occasional token gesture, Three Mares integrates it completely into their business model. The company not only donates profits from acquired businesses but also products to organizations overcoming barriers in the equestrian field.
Breaking Down Barriers
The world of sports, particularly equestrian sport, is rife with challenges involving accessibility, safety, and equity. For the uninitiated, the cost of participation and equipment, as well as the logistical complexities, can be prohibitively high. Recognizing these challenges, Three Mares pledges to donate $1 million over a decade—a journey beginning with a resounding $151,000 in its first year given to 15 organizations like IHSA, IEA, and the Pony Club. The company dons its philanthropic cape with the impactful Margaret Mead mantra that a small band of committed individuals can indeed effect change.
Transformative Donations and Their Ripple Effects
Among their various donations, one stands out: a $13,200 contribution to GaitWay to Her Success. This wasn't just a financial act of kindness; it translated into new saddles for inclusive programs focused on young women and girls. For smaller organizations, five-figure donations are not just a windfall; they are transformative, enhancing capacity and safety for riders otherwise unable to access properly fitted equipment.
Over 200 pairs of Dreamers & Schemers socks were donated to IHSA and IEA, ensuring that young equestrian athletes had the right gear to compete and express themselves. This blend of financial and in-kind donations exemplifies Three Mares’ approach—turning resources into opportunity.
From Personal Struggle to Widespread Change
Kehring's journey began tragically when her own daughter was a victim of misconduct, leading to the creation of the #WeRideTogether campaign. This personal battle morphed into a broader crusade against misconduct in youth sports—a usually avoided but desperately necessary cause.
Three Mares’ philanthropic venture thus evolved beyond tackling misconduct to supporting any initiative that aims to improve the safety, equality, and accessibility of sports for young people. The organizations benefiting from this could be small grassroots movements or national powerhouses—what matters is their impact and alignment with Three Mares' mission.
Sustaining a Philanthropic Business Model
Three Mares' business model is built around acquiring brands like Dreamers & Schemers and ManeJane and channeling their profits back into sports. This model means each product—like a pair of socks or a spur strap—directly funds youth sport initiatives. It's a commitment that far transcends traditional corporate social responsibility.
This model rings true to their belief that profit should serve a higher purpose. Sporting goods translate to grassroots support, and every purchase promises further capacity for Three Mares to honor its philanthropic pledgor.
The Future of Sports Philanthropy
The journey toward transformational philanthropy in equestrian sports is learning to shift its paradigm from siloed efforts to collective action. With a goal to donate an additional $850,000, Three Mares envisions a reimagined sporting domain where philanthropy is no adjunct to business but its primary output.
The compelling data point that 94% of women executives in Fortune 500 companies were collegiate athletes underscores the importance of sports in shaping future leadership. Three Mares not only provides access to sport but opens up broader opportunities for future leaders.
Final Thoughts and Impact
The legacy that Carrie Kehring and her company's lies in the decisive proof that commerce and philanthropy not only can coexist but empower each other to greater ends. This enterprising move reiterates that brands can stand as advocates for change. In the pantheon of sports philanthropy, Three Mares is a testament to the power held by purpose-driven profits.
By strategically aligning philanthropy with a capitalistic framework, Three Mares sets a new precedent for how organizations approach societal challenges. For anyone in the equestrian community, future success is not hinged solely on talent but on the ripple effect of initiatives like Kehring's, which offer not just funding and equipment, but hope and opportunity.
Source: For further insight, check their website at https://www.thethreemares.com
