Spirit Ride is a therapeutic riding center and 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that serves the special needs communities and is located in Banner Elk, NC. This particular organization is very near and dear to my heart because my youngest son participates in the equine therapy provided there.
From Spirit Ride’s website:
“Therapeutic Riding involves the use of horses and equine-assisted activities in an effort to achieve goals that enhance physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills for people with special needs.
Spirit Ride is committed to providing private Therapeutic Riding sessions free of charge to all accepted clients. Through working with the client’s Therapy Team (Educators, Community Professionals and Parents/Guardians) we are able to create an ideal environment relating to the individual client’s specific needs. We give our undivided attention to the client and his/her equine partner for the entire duration of each session so that we may provide an opportunity to foster learning and personal growth (self-esteem, boundary setting, appropriate social interaction, as well as any cognitive or physical goals). We serve children with special needs – we affect families who need special care.”
Spirit Ride just had their 1st Annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser on May 5th. It was SPECTACULAR! The generous Rising Star Equestrian Center in Boone, NC hosted the fundraiser in their beautiful barn. Gadabouts Catering provided food, Banner Elk Winery provided wine, and Ugga Mugga Bakery (out of Blowing Rock) provided tasty sweet treats. The Appalachian Mountain Brewery provided all of the beer for the event as well as donations for the silent auction.
The event included live music from singer/songwriter/guitarist Lucas Triba, a silent auction, door prizes, a raffle, entertainment from DJ J-Hawk, a therapeutic riding demonstration, live viewing of the 144th Kentucky Derby, a “best hat” and “best dressed couple” contest, and the announcement of a new Spirit Ride coloring book series!
Here are some images from this wonderful event. Be sure to scroll all the way down to see all the amazing businesses that came together to make this a success!
