Triple H hosts annual fundraiser
Triple H Equitherapy Center held its annual fundraising gala on August 27 at Pedrotti’s Ranch in Helotes.
Inspired by the logo of the event’s title sponsor, Cavender Cares, the theme of the Magic of Horse Power Gala was “Heart Power Creates Horse Power to strengthen mind, body and spirit.”
Guests entered after being greeted by two of Triple H’s therapists, VooDoo and Jackson. These are two of the 17-horse herd of therapy horses who promote healing and transform the lives of individuals with mental, behavioral, and physical challenges. And that was what the night was all about: big-hearted people raising money to create horse power at Triple H Equitherapy, where horse power heals.
At Triple H, horse power heals because of the generosity of sponsors, auction donors, and guests. They make it possible for these amazing animal therapists and their human assistants to ensure more good work can be done for clients all over the hill country who come to Triple H for therapy delivered through – and by – horses.
Once the guests – most dressed in Western wear – signed in, they traversed an area with tables laden with items for the silent auction as The Derringer Band performed in the adjoining room. Up for bid were numerous items ranging from beautiful jewelry to gift baskets, to articles of clothing. Guests then made their way into the main event area where tables were set with colorful sunflower centerpiece arrangements.
Siobhain Anders of WOAI News4SA emceed the evening. After words of welcome, acknowledging major sponsors, and an invocation by Triple H board member Janet Casey, guests enjoyed a special fiesta buffet, including Pedrotti’s famous brisket and white queso, along with a variety of salads, Mexican entrees and desserts.
Guests then viewed an inspirational video created by Gerry Olert, professional video producer, featuring the life-changing work done at the ranch for kids and adults with special needs as well as Veterans with PTSD. The video ended with a special message from country music star, Michael Martin Murphey, writer of Wildfire and California in Pines among numerous songs.
Murphey said he knows firsthand how important equine-assisted activities and therapy can be because his granddaughter has medical issues requiring that she use a wheelchair. He was contacted and persuaded to participate by actor Jay Pennington, award winning actor/filmmaker and Triple H board member.
To watch the video and peruse the photo gallery of pictures taken by Kim Wallace, Haven Creek Photography, and her friend, Jamie Harris, go to the Triple H website: triple-h.org/gala-2022. html.
The program concluded with two testimonials by Triple H clients. Earl Taylor, Vietnam Veteran, related how he had no relief from PTSD symptoms until he came to Triple H and experienced the healing power of horses. Sabrina, a 17-year old participant in Riding to Independence classes, and her mother Stephanie told the audience how horse-powered therapy transformed Sabrina’s life.
Joey Tomlinson conducted a lively Live Auction that included a week at a Destin beach house, a broadtail dyed brown Astrakan (lamb) throw donated by Elegant Furs, a framed autographed Tony Parker Spurs jersey, an Americus Diamond Circle of Support Diamond pendant, a “bountiful Boerne basket” that included a two-night stay at a suite in The Kendall Inn with dinner for two at Peggy’s on the Green and other gift certificates, and a “Pearl by Day, The Fairmount by Night” package that featured a one-night stay at the historic Fairmount Hotel in downtown San Antonio with dinner for four at Nonna Osteria and gift certificates from one-of-a kind shops in The Pearl District.
Kudos go to board member Diane Skillrud, chairwoman of the Gala Team, and all of the team members and board members who worked to make this the best gala ever. Special thanks also go to Keisha Gonzales, the logistics team leader, the staff and volunteers. We could not have done it without their hard work and smiling faces. The entire board of directors went above and beyond to make this a huge success. This was truly a team effort, and the results are fantastic!”
Keisha Gonzales, Operations Director added, “It was hands down the best gala ever, and we are very appreciative to those that made it happen and to all those who showed such amazing support for our mission. The support of those attending will be felt by all who receive life changing therapy at Triple H.”
Ginger Eways is the Executive Director of Triple H Equitherapy.