Wellington, Florida – JustWorld International kicked off its first fundraising event by organizing a ‘Jump for a Just World’ Training Show on Saturday, January 24, 2004, in Wellington, FL.

Hosted by Belle Herbe Farm, the ‘Jump for a Just World’ Training Show saw some of show jumping’s biggest names take advantage of the opportunity to ride on the grass grand prix field, designed by Olympic course designer Robert Jolicoeur, in support of JustWorld International, a not-for-profit, humanitarian organization founded to prepare and empower students to become visionary leaders and work for social justice.

Candice King takes the JustWorld International fence riding her grand prix mount, Tarco.
Photo Credit – Andrew Robitaille

During the day, riders including Alison Firestone, Candice King, Laura Kraut and McLain Ward, as well as Eric Navet and Yann Candele of France, and Eric Lamaze and Keean White of Canada, trained a total of 150 horses in the three divisions offered. Following the day’s jumping action, over 250 guests enjoyed cocktails and dinner as well as both a silent and live auction. By day’s end, over $97,000 had been raised in support of JustWorld International.

“I grew up in the horse industry and wanted to find a way to connect my love of the sport with the ability to fundraise in support of JustWorld International,” explained former grand prix rider Jessica Newman, Executive Director of JustWorld International. “As a student, my life was transformed after I spent a semester working with street children in Honduras. I founded JustWorld International in order to give other students the opportunity to change their own lives by helping those in need and, in turn, become ethical global leaders. I am pleased that so many members of the horse community came out to support our cause and we had the opportunity to educate and raise awareness within the industry.”

Grand Prix Rider and ‘Jump for a Just World’ spokesperson, Ray Texel, at the inaugural event.
Photo Credit – Andrew Robitaille

Two-time World Cup Finalist and ‘Jump for a Just World’ spokesperson, Ray Texel of Bedford, NY, has taken a strong interest in the humanitarian efforts of JustWorld International and many other riders have followed suit. Through a variety of initiatives, including donating a portion of their prize money or giving a clinic to benefit JustWorld International, riders are able to support the organization. Based on the success of the initial effort, additional ‘Jump For a Just World’ events are currently being planned.

Founded in 2002, JustWorld International offers fellowship programs for students from around the globe to learn leadership skills, the tools that they can use to make a positive difference in the world. With seven project sites already located in such underprivileged nations as Cambodia, Rwanda and Chile and several other project sites awaiting funding, students have the opportunity to work for change in a wide variety of environments on behalf of JustWorld International.

For further information on JustWorld International, please visit www.justworldinternational.org

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