19 Aug Cattle Baron’s Ball Raises $95,000 to Support Free Rein Foundation’s Equine-Assisted Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – The first-ever Cattle Baron’s Ball, a premier charity event that supports the Free Rein Foundation’s horse rescue and equine-assisted learning and wellness programs, achieved remarkable success on Saturday, August 12th, at the picturesque Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center’s event venue, the Red Horse Barn. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the Cattle Baron’s Ball raised an impressive sum of $95,000.
“We pulled out all the stops this year to make the Cattle Baron’s Ball an extra-special and immersive event for our guests,” says Judy Alexander, who co-chaired the event with Maria Bereket and Sheila Holliday. “With the incredible success of the ball, we have already started to plan our 2024 event with the support and recognition of new local partnerships and community sponsors from our surrounding community.”
The charity event welcomed a distinguished and diverse crowd of more than 200 attendees and supporters.
Multiple special guests added prestige to the occasion, including:
- Huntington Beach City Attorney, Michael Gates
- Mary Behrens, Owner/ Operator of Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center
- Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Al Labrada
- Huntington Beach Mayor Pro Tem, Gracey VanDerMark
- Assistant Fire Chief of Huntington Beach, Eric McCoy
- City Council Member, Pat Burns
The Yellowstone-themed ball transported attendees into a world of rustic charm and natural beauty. The event featured an array of activities and entertainment, including live music courtesy of the James Kelly Band, a lively dance floor, and a live and silent auction that showcased a diverse range of items, including a captivating live art display, life-sized iron statues, and mini horses. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage in spirited rounds in the whiskey game room, capture their essence through caricatures, and savor moments at the Thirsty Horse Saloon.
Funds raised will be pivotal in advancing the Free Rein Foundation’s mission to provide equine-assisted learning and wellness programs to children, veterans, and community groups. A portion of Cattle Baron’s Ball proceeds will be allocated to the Free Rein Foundation’s Phase II development of the First Responder program. This initiative aims to offer therapeutic equine-assisted support to first responders who tirelessly serve their communities. Additionally, funds will contribute to the ongoing barn-raising and herd expansion projects, solidifying the Foundation’s efforts to provide a safe haven for the rescue horses and the individuals they inspire.
“Cattle Baron’s Ball brought together community members, sponsors, and donors who share a passion for equine-assisted learning and wellness programs as well as horse rescues,” says Judy. “On behalf of Free Rein Foundation, we want to extend sincere gratitude to all the distinguished guests, attendees, sponsors, and supporters who made the event a resounding success.”
For more information about the Free Rein Foundation, its programs, and ways to get involved, please visit www.freereinfoundation.org
Contact: Judy Alexander, email Judy@freereinfoundation.org
About Free Rein Foundation: Since 2014, Free Rein has rescued, rehabilitated, and rehomed horses that have been abused and enlisted their incredible “horse sense” in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) programs. The use of horses in the treatment and training of humans is a non-traditional therapeutic approach. Activities provide opportunities to explore ways of managing difficult situations, fears, attitudes, and ways of being in relationships and society.
About Cattle Baron’s Ball: The Cattle Baron’s Ball, benefiting the Free Rein Foundation, is the first Yellowstone Themed experience to be held at the Red Horse Barn at the Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center.