It is the mission of the National Youth Board (NYB) to act as a liaison between the youth membership of USPC and the Board of Governors by communicating the needs, ideas, and concerns of USPC youth to governing officers. NYB members provide member insight and bring forward ideas and proposals regarding important issues, as well as conduct independent projects under the direction of the National Office.
Delegates of the NYB must be between 18 - 23 years of age, highly motivated and dedicated, and have strong leadership and communication skills. It is expected that delegates maintain open communication with the members they represent, providing an efficient medium for communication in a professional manner. Their work requires regular communication with other NYB members, USPC Board Committee members, USPC National Office staff, and the greater USPC community.
The current NYB Chair and the previous Chair also serve as members on the USPC Board of Governors.
The National Youth Board members are available to discuss any questions you may have about NYB, it's mission, or to share ideas for topics or projects you’d like the NYB to explore. You can reach the NYB Chair at nybchair@ponyclub.org.
Interested in becoming an NYB delegate? Check out the details below about delegate obligations and a link to the application.
NYB members meet face-to-face once a year at the USPC Convention. Compensation related to meeting traveling costs can be accommodated, so financial limitations should not restrict an applicant from coming forward. Additionally, there are meetings via teleconferences and a private Facebook group.
Time commitments can fluctuate from one month to another as it can be dependent on projects, but generally, at least 5 hours per month can be expected. We understand outside commitments such as school, equestrian activities, etc. and work as a team to ensure all are able to fulfill their duties within their own restrictions.
Applicant Requirements
Applications for the 2026 National Youth Board will be available late 2025.
The National Youth Board began publishing newsletters for USPC members and others to follow along with NYB projects in 2024.
In 2013, the National Youth Board (NYB) set a goal to create and maintain successful Regional Youth Boards (RYB) across the country. Many Pony Club members may already be familiar with the Youth Board concept on the local level. This will not only help retain each region's older members, but is also a vital piece of the direct communication link between the USPC Board of Governors and the general membership which the National Youth Board serves.
If you are interested in forming a Regional Youth Board in your region, or are looking for ideas to improve your region's Regional Youth Board be sure to check out the resources below.
Regional Youth Board Structure
The “Pin Promise” inspires current members, alumni, and adult volunteers to wear their pins beyond Pony Club. USPC is proud of past and present members’ achievements. Taking the Pin Promise Pledge allows members and Alumni to show their pride in the time and effort they devoted to furthering their riding through Pony Club.
Post your promise on the Pony Club Pinterest Pin Promise Board, by posting a picture of yourself wearing your pin, or by re-pining the Pony Club Pin Promise.
Lost your pin? Visit Shop Pony Club to purchase your alumni pin today!
An Excerpt from National Youth Board Past President (2012)
The “Pin Promise” is important because Pony Club is a common ground for a variety of people throughout the horse world and it is an excellent way to identify members, volunteers, and alumni. No matter the discipline or level, we are surrounded by other members and professionals who understand the importance of horse management in the process of creating proficient riders. No advertising can compete with seeing our members and alumni being involved in the greater horse world with competence and confidence.
Many upper level riders and professionals have attributed a portion of their success to their riding roots as a member of Pony Club, and we want the next generation to be just as proud of their Pony Club background. In my personal experience, it is hard to put into words all that Pony Club means to me. Wearing my pin while competing both in and out of Pony Club is a matter of pride and honor. Without the curriculum and networking, I certainly would not have had the same caliber of riding and horse management opportunities, or developed the confidence and leadership that Pony Club strives to teach its members.
Regardless of your level or how many years you spent in the organization; once a Pony Club Member, always a Pony Club Member! I hope that you all will join me in proudly wearing your pin at your next outing.
Macy Carman
