BPIR Foundation Crisis Assistance Grant

Standing behind our cowboys and cowgirls when it matters most.

Rodeo is one of the most demanding sports there is. When an injury takes you out of the arena, it can stop your income overnight and put sudden strain on you and your family. You shouldn't have to carry that weight alone. The BPIRF Crisis Assistance Grant was created so you don't have to.

This grant is our Foundation's promise to the men and women who carry forward the legacy of Black rodeo: when hardship hits because of a competition injury or a qualifying crisis, your BPIRF community is here to help you stabilize, recover, and get you back to doing what you love.

What the Grant Provides

The BPIRF Crisis Assistance Grant offers short-term financial relief to BPIR contestants facing hardship after a competition-related injury or other qualifying crisis. It's designed to help cover the essentials while you focus on healing and work toward your return to competition.

What It Helps Cover

• Medical – medical expenses
• Housing — rent or mortgage during your recovery period
• Utilities — keeping the lights, water, and heat on
• Food — basic groceries for you and your family

Who Can Apply

To qualify, you'll need to meet all of the following:

• You are 21 or older and a current BPIR Association member in good standing at the time you apply.
• You sustained a competition-related injury — or experienced another qualifying crisis event — at a Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo.
• You have documented medical expenses or financial hardship that resulted directly from that injury or event.
• That hardship has made it difficult to meet your basic living expenses.
• You submit a complete application with all required supporting documentation.

Note: The BPIR Foundation Committee reviews each request individually and may ask for additional documentation to support your application.

How to Apply

1. Complete the application — Tell us what happened, the financial impact you've experienced, and the specific assistance you're requesting.
2. Gather your documentation — Include items such as medical records, bills, or income statements that help substantiate your request.
3. Submit everything — Send your completed application and supporting documents to the BPIR Foundation Committee for review.

What Happens After You Apply

The BPIR Foundation Committee reviews every application — confirming eligibility, weighing need, and making a decision in line with the fund's guidelines and available resources. You'll be notified of the decision as soon as it's made. Determinations are final and are subject to fund availability.

The Grant at a Glance

More Than a Program — A Promise

You are the heart of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, and this grant from the BPIR Foundation reflects a simple promise: we value you as a person, not just a competitor. We celebrate you when you compete, stand with you when you’re hurt, and look forward to cheering you back into the arena.

Questions or ready to apply?  Reach out to the BPIR Foundation Committee at [email protected]