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‘Horses of hope’ boosts charity and youth spirits

Fundraiser for Bethany Home program at Paul Kalke farm Aug. 19
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A fundraiser is coming up soon that will support an amazing youth charity in the County of Wetaskiwin and Millet area.

The Peace Hills Cowboy Fellowship, a group of local farmers, ranchers and cowboys who want to help the community, are organizing a prime rib dinner and entertainment day Aug. 19 near Millet to support the Bethany Homes’ “Horses of Hope” program.

“Horses of Hope,” run at the Bethany Homes facility about 14 km east of Wetaskiwin, is operated by Hope Mission. The program introduces youth, especially disadvantaged and marginalized youth, to the joy and excitement of horsemanship.

Local farmer and businessman Paul Kalke, a member of PHCF, said the “Horses of Hope” is a program that could have a life-changing effect on youth.

“Probably the focus of their purpose is to help kids in need who always wanted to experience the privilege of riding horses,” said Kalke Aug. 2 at his Wetaskiwin business.

Kalke said youth come from all areas to enjoy this program and it’s open to anybody who wants to come out and ride.

The fundraiser itself offers a lot of fun and learning. The day begins at 2:30 p.m. with a live horse-training demo with Rick Benson of the famous 777 Ranch, located at Ferron, Utah.

Up next at 3:30 p.m. is a live auction for one year of feed and care of the nine horses that make “Horses of Hope” such a special program. Kalke said the horses will be at the auction. Also, guests will get a chance to bid on pairs of boots for the youth; over 40 pairs of Jones Boys boots will be auctioned. Wayne Meyers will provide auctioneer services.

Guests can also bid on a home-baked pie or donate a quality item to the silent auction.

At 5 p.m. everyone will settle down to enjoy a rime rib dinner.

Following at 6:30 p.m. guests will hear a short inspirational talk with Bruce Reith and Rick Benson of the 777 Ranch and some great country music.

Organizers ask guests to please RSVP by Aug. 15

For info and tickets: Becky 780-422-2018 ext 268 (Email becky.payne@hopemission.com), Eldon Langerud 780-312-1073, Len Ohlmann 780-699-7740 and Paul Kalke 780-361-5545.

Stu.salkeld@pipestoneflyer.ca