Our Mission
Woodside-area Horse Owners Association (WHOA! ) is an advocacy organization whose mission is to preserve the fundamental role of horses in maintaining the rural character of the Town of Woodside and neighbouring foothill communities, to enhance opportunities for equestrian activities, and to promote the enjoyment of horses in all their various roles.
Our Vision
WHOA! envisions a Woodside area replete with horses and horse activities for both horse owners as well as the general public. The rural landscape and network of trails are preserved, including public and private horse properties.
organizing events
We advocate awareness and appreciation of horses, and celebrate the rich equestrian heritage of the Woodside area, by organizing annual public events.
facilitating communication
We facilitate communication among equestrian organizations, and coordinate action on significant issues affecting the keeping of horses and the maintenance of trails. We enhance communication between equestrians and non-equestrians.
Promoting safety awareness
We inform residents and visitors about the safety concerns of horsemen and about trail etiquette.
Preserving Trails and Equestrian facilities
We preserve the rural ambience of the Woodside area by promoting the restoration and maintenance of horse habitats and trails.
WHOA! works on its own and with other organizations to protect and celebrate Our Horses
Our History
The seeds of WHOA! were planted around a dinner table in 2000, when a group of equestrians agreed that a community-based association would help maintain the unique horse-friendly aspects of the area. Our equestrian trails, for example, are considered one of the best rural residential trail systems in the country. From that first meeting, it was decided that WHOA! could provide resources, activities and opportunities to make life around horses a pleasure for riders and non-riders alike.
WHOA! operates under the fiscal umbrella of the Woodside Community Foundation (WCF), a 501(c) 3 organization, federal tax I.D. # 94-6108531. The Woodside Community Foundation was pleased to embrace the WHOA! cause, which is consistent with their 50-year-old mission to preserve the rural character of Woodside and the surrounding area.
