June 2, 2024
Healing with Horses Ranch hosted its annual Heart of a Warrior Un-Gala on Saturday, May 25th, 2024, bringing together approximately 90 attendees for an evening of heartfelt stories, auctions, and community connection. The event was held under the Ranch’s covered arena, providing much-needed shade on what was the hottest day of the year, with an excessive heat advisory in place. Despite the weather, the atmosphere remained upbeat, thanks to evaporative air coolers, fans, and the collective spirit of the Ranch community.
The evening began at 6 PM with drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Guests were chauffeured from the overflow parking area to the arena in ATVs and warmly greeted by members of the Ranch’s equine therapy herd. Attendees had the unique opportunity to interact with the horses while participating in Horse Poop Bingo, a lighthearted game that raised additional funds for the Ranch.
As guests mingled, they previewed live auction items and placed bids on silent auction offerings. Dinner was served at 7 PM by Chef BlaqRobb Catering, featuring a mouth-watering spread of pork and vegan sliders, an array of sides, and decadent desserts, including mini peach cobblers and parfaits.
The evening was highlighted by heartfelt testimonials from three veterans involved in the Unbridled Warriors program, which provides free equine-assisted services to veterans and first responders. Speakers Jennifer Gonzalez, USMC, and Brittni Carlson, SPC, of the United States Army shared their personal stories of healing and resilience, while a written testimonial from Patrick Nuckols of Serenity Gardens was read aloud by Rebekah Fookes, the Ranch’s Development Director.
The emotional crescendo of the night came when Healing with Horses Ranch founder, Patty D’Andrea, shared her own moving testimony. Drawing on her experiences as the daughter of an Air Force veteran, Patty spoke about the impact the military had on her family and her vision for expanding the Ranch’s services to the families of veterans.
The evening concluded with a lively live auction at 8 PM, hosted by professional auctioneer Howard Chase. Auction items ranged from jewelry and custom artwork to a trail ride with Patty D’Andrea herself. By the end of the night, guests left with their auction treasures, knowing their contributions would directly support the Ranch’s Unbridled Warriors program.
Healing with Horses Ranch extends its deepest gratitude to the individuals and organizations that made this event a success. The funds raised during the Un-Gala will help the Ranch continue its mission of healing and building resilience for veterans and first responders through equine-assisted services.