News

January 16, 2024

A New Farrier Organization Devoted to Continuing Education

In 2022 a small group of internationally recognized farriers conversed about the need of having an organization that would focus on providing continuing education opportunities for the farrier industry. This group was made up of current and former members of a variety of farrier associations including American Farrier’s Association (AFA), International Association of Professional Farriers (IAPF), World Championship Blacksmiths (WCB), and many other state/provincial and regional associations. Initial members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors include Roy Bloom, Tim Cable, Dave Farley, Steve Prescott, and Adam Wynbrandt. Bryan Quinsey volunteered to assist in an administrative capacity.

Shortly thereafter, the Hoofcare Essentials Foundation Inc. – a 501(c)3 charitable organization was re-organized with a group of Educational Partners (companies) and Patrons (individuals) providing the financial footing to cover the costs of producing the highest quality of continuing education events. The Foundation seeks to bring farriers of various membership to their continuing education events. Their intent is to work in collaboration with all international, national, state, provincial, and regional farrier associations.

Annual goals of the Foundation include:

Sponsor at least 5 full-day clinics held throughout the United States;
Seek out corporate and individual donations to offset the Foundation’s expenses;
Identify the most-knowledgeable farriers in the industry to serve as clinicians. These clinicians will receive compensation for their services including transportation, lodging, and day fees (which includes travel days);
Offer financial support for state and/or regional farrier associations for their educational clinics;
Create an online memorial recognition of family and friends of the farrier industry.

Please note that 100% of funds raised will be used to provide continuing education opportunities. No funds will be used for payroll or payroll expenses. All Board members and staff serve as volunteers.

The Foundation is currently seeking to identify potential clinicians and hosts for their 2024 and 2025 clinics. Interested parties should visit our website – www.HoofcareEssentials.com.

Upcoming clinics include Wellington, Florida on March 10 and Ken Davis and Sons on March 15 & 16.