Volunteer Recognition - Central States Dressage & Eventing Association

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Volunteer Recognition Program

At CSDEA, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. From supporting clinics and horse trials to helping with educational programs, committees, banquets, and community outreach, our organization depends on the time, effort, and dedication of members who care deeply about growing dressage and eventing in our region.

The Volunteer Recognition Program was created to honor those contributions and celebrate the individuals who consistently give back to the equestrian community. It’s one way we say thank you for the many hours spent supporting riders, events, and programs throughout the year.

Report Your Volunteer Hours

Volunteers can submit hours earned throughout the year using our online Volunteer Hours Form. Hours are cumulative and continue to build over time, allowing members to be recognized as they reach new milestones in their volunteer journey with CSDEA.

Volunteer hours may be earned through:

CSDEA hosted clinics and educational events
Schooling shows and affiliated competitions
Banquets, tack swaps, and community events
Committee work and Board service
Volunteer support at CSDEA affiliated events and activities

For a full list of affiliated competitions, members can reference the annual Omnibus or the CSDEA Affiliated Shows page.

Recognition Levels

Volunteers are recognized annually at the CSDEA Awards Banquet & Silent Auction for their continued service and support.

Volunteer Milestones

50 Hours — Light Blue Pin
100 Hours — Grey Pin
150 Hours — Brown Pin
200 Hours — Purple Recognition Gift
250 Hours — Green
300 Hours — Pink
350 Hours — White
400 Hours — Yellow
450 Hours — Red
500 Hours — Blue
750 Hours — Reserve/Purple
1000 Hours — Champion/Gold

Volunteers reaching 50, 100, and 150 hours receive commemorative pins, while volunteers surpassing 200 hours receive special recognition gifts.

Program Guidelines

To ensure fairness and consistency, please review the following guidelines:

Volunteers must be current CSDEA members in good standing
Hours are cumulative and do not need to be earned within a single year
Volunteer hours completed on or after December 1, 2017 count toward recognition totals
Hours must be submitted by November 30 each year to be recognized at that year’s Awards Banquet
Hours submitted after the deadline will still be recorded and recognized the following year
All volunteer hours must be submitted through the official online reporting form

Interested in Volunteering?

Whether you enjoy helping behind the scenes, supporting educational programs, assisting at competitions, or contributing your professional skills, there are many ways to get involved with CSDEA. Volunteers play an essential role in helping our organization create opportunities for riders, horses, and the broader equestrian community throughout the Upper Midwest.

Volunteering is about much more than donating your time. It’s an opportunity to connect with fellow riders and industry professionals, gain a deeper understanding of the sport, and become more involved in the community that supports your own equestrian journey. Many volunteers find that some of their most valuable connections, experiences, and friendships are built through their involvement with CSDEA.

No matter your experience level, background, or availability, there is a place for you to contribute. Whether you can help at a single event each year or are interested in taking on a more active role within the organization, your support helps strengthen the future of dressage and eventing across our region.

Ready to Get Involved?

Complete our Volunteer Interest Survey to learn about current opportunities and discover ways to participate throughout the year. We would love to help you find a role that matches your interests, skills, and schedule.

Submit Your Volunteer Interest Survey

If you have questions about volunteer opportunities or the Volunteer Recognition Program, please contact the Volunteer Committee:

volunteer@csdea.org

Thank you for helping make CSDEA possible. Your time, energy, and willingness to give back are what allow our programs, events, and community initiatives to continue growing and thriving year after year.