2007 Auction Dinner

On Saturday, November 3, the NorthWest Therapeutic Riding Center is sponsoring "Denim to Diamonds", a dinner and auction fundraiser for Whatcom County’s only therapeutic horseback riding program. The event will take place at the Elks Lodge on Samish Way. Doors open at 5:30 PM, with time for guests to browse the silent auction before the dinner and program begin.

The keynote speaker for the event will be Dr. Kevin Frankeberger, a nationally renowned expert on issues regarding disability awareness and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Dr. Frankeberger, who has overcome both congenital blindness and chronic pain, was dubbed a "national transit success story" by Easter Seals Project ACTION and has been featured in many national publications. He also was an invited guest for Whatcom County Transit’s training program in 2004 and 2005. "We are really excited to have Kevin Frankeberger as a speaker at this year’s fundraiser," said Julia Bozzo, executive director of the NorthWest Therapeutic Riding Program. "His accomplishments will be an inspiration to all of our riders and their families."

Located just north of Bellingham, the NorthWest Therapeutic Riding Center was established in 1993 to provide therapeutic horseback riding activities for mentally, physically and emotionally challenged children and adults in Whatcom County. Participants include individuals with autism, Down Syndrome, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, and learning/behavior disabilities. The Center, which serves up to 32 riders per week, was featured in Northwest Horse Source magazine in July 2006 (see article).

Each of the NWTRC’s riders receives an individual lesson plan designed for the achievement of specific therapeutic goals. Each session involves both a certified riding instructor, and up to four volunteers per rider to serve as horse leaders, rider sidewalkers, and assistants. Group lessons often require up to 12 volunteers per session. The Center also "employs" 5 horses, specially trained to work with disabled riders. Kurt, a Norwegian fjord, was named Region IX Horse of the Year by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) in 2006. (see more)

The NorthWest Therapeutic Riding Center is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax deductible. The NWTRC receives no government grants or insurance payments, and operates solely on funds from fundraising events, private and corporate donations, and a minimal tuition from its clients.

Tickets for the November 3 event are $50, and may be reserved by calling Annette Booth at 360-312-1235, or by emailing nwtrc@premier1.net.

Download the Auction invitation here [pdf].

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Thanks to Elenbaas Company for grain sponsorship for all the NWRTC horses!

"We at the Elenbaas Company consider it a privilege to help support the work that the NWTRC does with our community’s kids."