The word "pony" reflects the youth of the membership, rather than the size of the mount. Horses and ponies --- and even mules! --- of all different breeds, shapes, and sizes are seen at Pony Club activities. USPC provides opportunities for instruction and competition in English riding, horse sports and horse management for children and young adults up to 21 years of age.

It is not necessary for a member to own a horse or pony, but he or she must have access to one for Club lessons and other USPC events. Programs are offered in dressage, eventing, show jumping, mounted games, tetrathalon (run/ride/swim/shoot), quiz (dismounted horse management), vaulting, foxhunting, and polocrosse. At dismounted meetings, members learn about feeding, shoeing, veterinary care, and other areas of horse management. Under adult supervision, the more experienced Pony Clubbers learn to instruct and assist younger members.

Pony Club members　are encouraged to work their way through the nine stages of the progressive Standards of Proficiency that test knowledge and riding ability. Members　who attain the B, H-A, and A rating levels meet standards of competence that are recognized as professionally competent throughout the horse world.

USPC (and by extension Copper Valley Pony Club) is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable educational organization. Donations from individuals or businesses are tax-deductible, and are used to fund programs, provide services, and purchase any necessary equipment in support o f Club activities.