On Sept. 20, Saving Grace Therapeutic Programs at Chandelle Farms (formerly Saving Grace Farm), a local nonprofit organization, held its second annual Silver Buckle Charity Ball.
Saving Grace Farm provides therapeutic equine-assisted activities to people with special needs and disabilities, youth at-risk, seniors, veterans and those who have experienced trauma.
“The programs that happen at Saving Grace can be life-changing for the individuals involved. Children have spoken their first word on the backs of our horses, youth who are unable to walk gain four legs and join their peers, and men who have served our country in the face of danger have gained a magnificent new four-legged friend that can help them transition back to civilian life,” said Janna Griggs, program director for the organization.
The Silver Buckle Charity Ball was a Western-themed dinner event held in the organization’s covered arena. Proceeds from the ball go toward providing scholarships to assist clients who are unable to pay for these services, as well as aiding in operating expenses of the organization.
The event included a demonstration ride by one of the special riders as well as live music by Chad Triplett & Two Lane BlackTop and the Yakin Valley String Band. Guests also participated in a silent auction and roping contest.
Each aspect of the event was operated by volunteers. Guests, encouraged to dress in Western attire, enjoyed several appetizers before choosing entrées of ribeye or chicken accompanied by mashed potatoes, green beans, Texas beans, broccoli salad, rolls, muffins, cookies, cake and cobbler.
Last year, members of the community volunteered prior to the event in the fundraising effort. These “outlaws” were arrested at the event and thrown in “jail” if they did not quite reach their “bailout” goal. This year, the organization decided to forego the outlaws due to time constraints, but hopes to revive the tradition in years to come.
“We cannot thank everyone enough for all of their help and support during this event,” Griggs said. “Thank you to everyone who came, gave and helped.”
Sponsors for the event were G&M Earth Moving of New York, Vulcan Materials Co., Judith Klusman, EcoValley Wine Imports, Civitan Club of Salisbury, Summersett Funeral Home, G+S Heating Air Energy Services and F&M Bank.
The organization plans to continue the event each year. All proceeds from events and sales by Saving Grace support programs for those with disabilities and special needs.
If you are interested in getting involved with this community program by volunteering or if you know someone who could benefit from these programs, ask them to call to set up a training or free evaluation with the director at 704-638-2339 or janna@savinggracefarm.com