The Online Auction is Open! Our Live Event (Kentucky Derby Gala) is coming soon.
The online portion of CATRA's Kentucky Derby Gala is now open. The auction runs April 14, 2023 to April 29, 2023, with the LIVE event on May 5, 2023 at Hollywood Casino. Proceeds go to CAPITAL AREA THERAPEUTIC RIDING ASSOCIATON to support quality equine/animal assisted therapeutic programs to the people of the Capital Area. In addition, a portion of the auction will also support SAVING GRACE SANCTUARY; an organization for old and retired horses who need a final forever home (https://savinggracesanctuary.com). Auction items range from vacation getaways to family activites to unique experiences; guaranteed to delight and surprise. So, tell your friends, family, community. Let the bidding begin!
Make Your Bid to Support CATRA and Saving Grace Sanctuary!
Now is your chance to not only get all the great items you want, but to do it knowing you are helping support our organization and mission.
CATRA has a four-point approach to animal assisted therapeutic programs. The cornerstone program of CATRA is the Therapeutic Horseback Riding lessons. This program focuses on balance, and movement, while promoting confidence and problem solving. The Miniature Horse Extravaganza – pairs people of all ages with a miniature horse to learn horsemanship, develop confidence, and build social skills while participating in a physical activity. The Paws n’ Read Program provides a unique opportunity utilizing the innate curiosity of animals to help young readers improve their reading skills while reading to an animal. The Equine Psychotherapy & Equine Growth & Learning Program – Horses and humans work together to improve the quality of life and mental health of individuals, families, and groups.
The proceeds raised by this event will help to fund a multitude of programs including sponsorships for those in need of financial assistance for lessons, horse care for our equine partners, and capacity building to help us service more participants and expand our program. Therapeutic horsemanship programs across the nation, including our program, have proven to be very beneficial for people of all ages with diverse abilities and challenges whether they are physical, psychological, developmental, and/or psychosocial. Improvements have been noted with participants' physical, emotional and social well-being following inclusion in therapeutic riding programs.
Don't forget it also helps Saving Grace Sanctuary where our horses have gone to retire and live out their golden years. Five CATRA horses are currently at Saving Grace.
