CULLMAN, Ala. – Hope Horses hosted its second annual Grow Hope Dinner on Oct. 8. The nonprofit celebrated 10 years of service with a western theme, contests for best boots and hats and dinner.
Executive Director Kelsey Scott said she is so thankful for the generosity of those in attendance who poured into their program. She said this year a new annual award was given – Legacy of Hope.
“Over the years, (local veterinarian) Dr. Bruce Lee has shown Hope Horses tremendous support,” Scott said. “He has opened doors we could not have opened ourselves. He has stepped in during difficult moments. He has provided knowledge, care, encouragement and security for our program and for the horses that make our mission possible.
“The very first Legacy of Hope award was presented to Dr. Bruce Lee for all his support that he has provided Hope since the beginning. Dr. Lee has set a great foundation for our program since the beginning. A stall was also dedicated to him and the entire Lee’s Veterinary Clinic for their support as well.”
Scott said more than 250 people came to the Grow Hope Dinner, and they are still finalizing the total amount of donations.
The nonprofit kicked off its capital campaign last summer with the goal of serving more students.
“Hope Horses is the only PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) center in North Alabama so we serve not only Cullman, but surrounding counties,” Scott said. “Currently there are 32 kids in our program weekly and we have over 20 kids on the waiting list. We want to be able to provide hope to as many kids as possible, and purchasing our property provided security and opportunity for our program to grow. The other part of our campaign is building growth and expanding our facility to accommodate and expand service opportunities to the community. We are proud that over the last year we have received partnerships from many businesses and individuals who believe in the impact and mission of our program and are proud to be a part of the impact.”
Since Hope Horses has two separate areas to fundraise for – the therapeutic side and the capital campaign – there are many different fundraising events and opportunities for individuals to get involved.
The next fundraising event is Casino Night on Saturday, Feb. 20, at Cotton Creek. For the capital campaign, they have a golf tournament on Monday, May 3, at Terri Pines.
“People can attend both events and there are many sponsorship opportunities that will be available,” Scott said. “Individuals can also volunteer. Volunteer opportunities are available through our therapeutic riding program.”
Each year, Scott said, Hope Horses hosts a Fall Fun Show for their students to show off all of their incredible skills.
“This year’s date is Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Hope Horses facility,” she said. “This is an incredible opportunity to see firsthand how your support makes an impact but also the impact Hope makes on students and families.”
Those interested can set up a tour to watch a lesson.
“Hope is not the work of one person; it takes a village to make Hope happen and support from individuals is needed,” Scott said. “Whether that is through volunteering, serving on the board or even giving monetarily.”
Hope Horses is located at 1301 Convent Road NE in Cullman.
For more information on tours and how to get involved, email krice@hopehorsesinc.com or visit www.hopehorsesinc.com.
