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ECAR to host ‘Derby Day’ fundraiser for Grace Rides in DeFuniak Springs

The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR) will host its annual Derby Day fundraiser to benefit Grace Rides therapeutic equestrian center on Saturday, May 3 from 3-6 p.m., at the organization’s facilities in DeFuniak Springs. “Grace Rides currently serves about 57 clients a week with a waiting list of 20-25,” said Melissa Forte Litscher, the […]

Ashley Armacost

The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR) will host its annual Derby Day fundraiser to benefit Grace Rides therapeutic equestrian center on Saturday, May 3 from 3-6 p.m., at the organization’s facilities in DeFuniak Springs.

The Kentucky Derby-themed watch party is family friendly and will raise funds for Grace Rides, a nonprofit located at 2061 Corbin Gainey Road that provides equine-assisted therapy for people with various physical, emotional and mental challenges.

“Grace Rides currently serves about 57 clients a week with a waiting list of 20-25,” said Melissa Forte Litscher, the chair of ECAR’s Community and Military Outreach Committee, which organizes the event. “They house, feed, train and supply 20 therapy horses for this therapy.”

Since 2008, Grace Rides has grown from serving just four riders weekly to becoming a significant therapeutic resource in the Florida Panhandle, providing services for individuals with autism, PTSD, emotional or behavioral issues, and physical disabilities. The organization began with a small core of volunteers working out of an equestrian facility in Niceville, and has since expanded to a 40-acre site.

The Derby Day fundraiser, timed to coincide with the 151st Kentucky Derby race, will feature food, drinks, games, live entertainment and a silent auction. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in traditional Derby attire while watching the “Run for the Roses” broadcast live from Churchill Downs.

“We are looking for silent auction items such as local resort stays, fishing trips, gift baskets, gift cards, or merchandise,” Litscher said.

The CAMO Committee is actively seeking both sponsors and silent auction donations for the event.

“The mission of Grace Rides is to provide a quality environment and program for extending the benefits of equine-assisted activities and therapies to individuals with special needs in a loving community,” according to event organizers.

Grace Rides operates year-round, with therapeutic riding sessions scheduled Tuesday through Friday, and occasional Saturday activities. Regular sessions last approximately 45 minutes and include 1-4 participants per session.

Ticket prices are $50 and children 12 and under are free. Proceeds from the event will help the nonprofit continue to serve the growing demand for its services. Those interested in tickets or sponsorships can visit the ECAR website here.

Additional information about Grace Rides and its programs is available here or by calling 850-259-9195.

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