A very unique program that introduces youth to the world of horses is hosting an important fundraising event soon.
Volunteer and organizer Paul Kalke noted Sept. 3 that the “Horses for Hope” program, sponsored by the Peace Hills Cowboy fellowship, is returning this year and a major fundraising event will be held Sept. 21 at Kalke’s ranch.
The “Horses for Hope” prime rib dinner, auction and entertainment will be held just west of Millet. “Horses for Hope” is a Bethany ranch program that gives youth of all backgrounds a chance to visit a real working ranch and learn about the world of horses, all free of charge. The prime rib dinner event helps cover the costs of this program.
Kalke said the Peace Hills Cowboy Fellowship loves to help out kids, and giving them a chance to learn about horses is a great way to do it. “We just want to give back to the community, especially kids,” said Kalke.
The dinner, fully covered by a corporate sponsor, is going to be packed with activities and fun. Kalke said guests only handle whatever donations they’d like to make, plus the auctions if they so choose.
The auctions will include sponsorship for nine Horses of Hope horses’ feed and care for a year. Guests will also have a chance to bid on tack from Jones Boys Tack and Western Wear plus lots of other great items, including home-baked pies. All donations are appreciated and receive a tax-deductible receipt.
Kalke said donations to the program have already started to come in, including a recent donation of $5,000 worth of bagged horse feed from the Wetaskiwin Co-op feed department.
Kalke said the auction will be handled by Wayne W. Meyers. “Oh, he’s so much fun,” said Kalke. “He’s an excellent auctioneer.”
The dinner itself will be followed by youth testimonials from program participants, plus live entertainment by Eldon Langerud.
Kalke’s ranch is located at #475047 on Range Road #253 west of Millet on Sec. Hwy. #616. The event gets underway at 4 p.m.
There is limited seating for the dinner and Kalke said RSVP is appreciated; call Vanessa at 780-453-3877 by Sept. 14 to reserve your seat.