Where is RFE located?

RFE is located at 1818 Versailles Road, Lexington, KY 40504.

What is RFE’s contact information?

The best way to reach the staff of RFE is by phone at 859.252.8648; fax at 859.252.8030; or email at:

Elisabeth Jensen, President and Executive Director
eaj@raceforeducation.org

Mandy Otis, Student Programs Manager
motis@raceforeducation.org

Melanie Hopkins, Controller
melanie@raceforeducation.org

Do you have a website?

Our web address is www.raceforeducation.org .  On the website you can find information about applying for scholarships, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, the Racehorse Nomination Program and much more. 

What is RFE’s mission?

The Race For Education (RFE), a national 501(c)(3) scholarship organization, enables young people of equine industry families as well as those who want to pursue an equine-related or agricultural career, both with significant financial need, to obtain a college degree by providing tuition support; financial literacy training to help students minimize their debt load; mentoring services to provide students with emotional support; and permanent jobs upon graduation.

How is RFE funded?

The Race For Education is primarily funded by various parties related to or with an interest in the Thoroughbred racing industry, but also receives funding from private and public resources.

Funding for the program comes from a number of resources:

  • Racehorse Nomination Program: Owners are invited to nominate their racehorses to The Race For Education, agreeing to donate 1% or more of the earnings to the program.
  • Corporate Matching: Corporate sponsors match funds contributed by owners.
  • Stallion Season Auction: To be held by Thoroughbred Charities of America.
  • Grants and Donations: Assets for Independence
  • Annual Race For Education 5K/10K: Takes place each year in memory of Karri Casner.  The race is held in Midway, KY each October.  For more info, please visit the RFE website.

Since its inception in 2002, The Race For Education has given out $3.5 million in scholarships and funding for other educational programs. This has been possible due to donations, both big and small, from supporters who understand the difference an education can make in a young person’s life.

When you donate to The Race For Education, one hundred percent of your contribution goes toward scholarships and other educational programs and is tax deductible. Contributing online is secure and confidential. Your personal information will not be given out.

Can I volunteer for RFE?  What type of help do you need?

The Race For Education needs help with a variety of ongoing projects.

Opportunities include:
  • Office Assistant
  • Special Events Team
  • Webmaster
  • Mailer Team
  • Photographer/videographer
  • Mentor
  • Speaker’s Bureau
  • Graphic Designer
  • Translator

If you would like to lend a hand, please contact Mandy Otis at 859.252.8648, or email motis@raceforeducation.org, to get started today.  You can also visit our website at www.raceforeducation.org and click on “View Volunteer Opportunities at Volunteer Solutions,” which will provide you with detailed descriptions of the opportunities available.
Shifts are scheduled based on volunteer’s availability. Training is provided. Friendly and outgoing individuals are preferred.