Hannah M. Serfass Foundation

The Hannah M. Serfass Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization established in 2023 in memory of Hannah Micayla Serfass, a 15-year-old equestrian who tragically passed away in a riding accident on April 30, 2023, at Fox Lea Farms in Venice, Florida[1][4]. This foundation was created by Hannah's family to honor her legacy and support junior riders in the equestrian community.

Mission

The mission of the Hannah M. Serfass Foundation is to uplift junior riders by providing scholarships and awards. These financial aids help young riders attend competitions, gain national exposure, and pursue their dreams in the equestrian world[1]. The foundation aims to foster opportunities for riders at all levels, from local to international events.

History

Following Hannah's passing, the equestrian community rallied around her family with an outpouring of support, including a successful GoFundMe campaign. The campaign initially aimed to establish a memorial for Hannah at the World Equestrian Center—Ocala but eventually evolved into a broader initiative to support young riders through the establishment of the Hannah M. Serfass Foundation[2][3].

Initiatives

• Scholarships: The foundation offers scholarships to help junior riders attend major competitions and develop their skills without significant financial burdens. Notably, Jaxon Hoshaw became the first recipient of a major scholarship from the foundation, receiving $10,000 to support his participation in prestigious equestrian events[1].
• Trophy Sponsorships: The foundation sponsors trophies for junior riders at both local and national equestrian shows, including prominent events like the Devon Horse Show, Junior Hunter Finals, and the ASPCA Maclay Final[1].
• Junior Rider Fund: In collaboration with the World Equestrian Center, the foundation also contributes to a junior rider fund aimed at supporting young riders in achieving their equestrian goals by offering annual grants[2][3].

Legacy

Hannah Micayla Serfass is remembered for her dedication to equestrian sports and her kindness towards animals. Through her foundation, her family continues to celebrate her life by providing opportunities for emerging talent in the equestrian community. Her legacy inspires young riders to pursue their dreams with hard work and dedication to the sport she loved[1].