by Sylene Argent
Around 265 individuals traded in their winter boots for the cowboy variety on Saturday, in anticipation of a night that not only provided plenty of support for the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA), but promised to make for a fun evening out.
WETRA’s second annual “Blue Jean Bash…at the Barn” helped members of the community and devoted sponsors of the local therapeutic riding program celebrate 50-years of serving the community.
Through its therapeutic horse-back riding program, around 200 individuals a week – most of whom are youths who have developmental, emotional, social, or physical special needs – are connected to horses through WETRA’s unique programing.
The fundraising event kicked-off with providing a snack to the guests, along-side some of the 20 therapeutic horses in the indoor riding arena. Guests were then offered a Spago catered dinner, and were able to enjoy a silent auction, live auction, live entertainment, and an opportunity to dance, ride a mechanical bull, create memories in the photo booth, try axe throwing, and play a round of the popular lawn game, cornhole.
Paige Shepley, Program Coordinator for WETRA, was pleased with the turnout, the feedback from the enthusiastic guests, and the way the fun event was able to bring awareness and raise funds for WETRA.
She said WETRA’s staff and volunteers hosted the event as there was desire to fundraise for the program, while also spreading awareness about all this organization offers its many clients.
“They are directly supporting the sustainability of the program and the horses,” she said. “Without the horses, there would be no program.”
Hosting the event at the facility was a great way to connect sponsors and program supporters with the horses and other animals onsite, so they could understand the value they bring to those who utilize the program.
“This shows where their support is going,” Shepley said, gesturing to the attendees who were off dancing or taking advantage of the other activities onsite. “This was a great way to support the organization, but to also have a super fun night out.”
It is hoped to learn from this year’s installment, and grow it even bigger for next year.
To learn more about the local therapeutic riding association, log onto www.wetra.ca