The community is invited to don their most western getup for a night of fun and philanthropy at the Hunkapi Programs Ninth Annual Open Your Heart Gala Saturday, Oct. 21.
Themed “old wild west,” the event celebrates Hunkapi, an equine therapy farm located in Scottsdale, and its mission to serve 300 individuals weekly through therapeutic horse programs on its historic 10-acre farm.
Funds raised from the gala support a range of services offered by Hunkapi Programs, including therapeutic riding, counseling, emotional regulation, team building and addiction recovery. The nonprofit serves clients with a range of diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, emotional disorder, addiction disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Hunkapi Programs hosts the Open Your Heart gala as a way to thank the community for supporting its mission.
“Every year, this gala is a chance for us to thank the community that supports our mission to provide quality equine therapy to Valley residents who need it most,” said Hunkapi Programs Founder, Terra Schaad.
“Demand for services and volunteer opportunities continue to rise as mental health has been challenged in both youth and adults alike, and this event allows us to continue supporting those looking for second chances and a place to heal.”
The evening, emceed by five-time Emmy Award-winning news anchor Brandon Lee, will feature a live auction led by auctioneer Subyn Novelle. Attendees can bid on items such as a private Phoenix Suns Suite, a Barrett Jackson VIP Package and a vacation at Omni Amelia Island Resort Stay & Delta Airfare.
Guests will enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience, games, a best-dress contest, photo opportunities with the herd and more.
For the first time, Hunkapi is introducing the “Old Wild West VIP Package,” which includes a private farm tour for two, a special cocktail reception, a Hunkapi swag bag, a chance to be photographed with one of the therapeutic riding horses and premier seating for two.
Last year’s Open Your Heart Gala raised an impressive $200,000 with the generous support of the local community. The event featured a farm-to-table dinner, a barn tour, equine therapy demonstrations, a mechanical bull, a best-dress contest, auctions and more.
Reflecting on the success of last year’s event, Schaad added, “This year’s magical gala showcased everything that it means to be a part of the Hunkapi family. We celebrated our horses, our clients and the incredible community of friends and allies who give all they can to keep the farm running.”
Hunkapi Programs offers a variety of horse-powered activities for children and adults, including therapeutic riding lessons, equine-assisted psychotherapy and garden therapy. The name “Hunkapi” is derived from a Native American word that means “I am related to everyone,” reflecting the deep sense of connection between horse and human.
Hunkapi Programs is an equine therapy farm located in Scottsdale.
The Open Your Heart gala will take place at Hunkapi Farms, located at 12051 N. 96th St., Scottsdale, Saturday, Oct. 21, with cocktail hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. and dinner beginning at 7 p.m.
Event tickets and sponsorships are available online at hunkapi.org/Open-Your-Heart-Gala. General admission starts at $250, and the Old Wild West VIP Package is available for $750. For those who would like to contribute to Hunkapi’s mission but can’t attend, donations are also accepted online.
For more information about Hunkapi Programs and farm events, visit Hunkapi.org or follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram. For inquiries, contact the farm at 480-841-5737 or email Love@Hunkapi.org.
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