About Us
About SWVADA
The Southwest Virginia Dressage Association, Inc. (SWVADA) was organized in 1978 when a group of dressage enthusiasts came together to form a new chapter of the Virginia Dressage Association (VADA), a Group Member Organization of the United States Dressage Federation. As a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization, SWVADA offers clinics, shows, demonstrations, and seminars that are open to the public.
Membership
SWVADA is fueled by enthusiastic members who are separated geographically, but linked closely by their dedication to the sport. The chapter attracts around members from throughout Southwest Virginia, from Abington to Harrisonburg to Lynchburg. Among the members are judges, technical delegates, trainers, instructors, amateur riders, non-riders, and juniors.
Board Meetings
Five to ten board members are elected annually by the general membership, and four officers are elected each year from among the SWVADA membership. The officers and board meet on the third Monday of every month at area restaurants. These meetings are announced on the website, www.swvada.org, and are open to anyone. All members are encouraged to attend.
Activities
The chapter and its members are active in hosting, supporting, and attending dressage shows and clinics. The chapter hosts annual dressage schooling shows and clinics at local facilities in the area. Qualified members who have fulfilled their volunteer requirements are eligible for year-end awards. The annual Educational Sunday, held each winter, features a tack sale, presentation of year-end awards, and recognition of SWVADA members and volunteers.
Benefits
Some perks of membership include:
•Membership in the Virginia Dressage Association through the Southwest chapter
•Group membership in the United States Dressage Federation
•Eligibility for chapter year end awards
•Discounted show and clinic fees
•Subscription to the e-newsletter
•Fun and friendship with others sharing a common interest.