CULLMAN, Ala. – Local nonprofit Hope Horses, Inc. hosted its popular Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser, Hats, Horses and Hope, Saturday evening, May 6. The event was held at Camp Meadowbrook, and attendees dressed in their best Derby fashions.
Seth Johnson, whose son Nate participates in the Hope Horses therapeutic riding program, shared his son’s story with attendees and said Hope Horses has changed their lives.
Johnson said his son was diagnosed with autism when he was 18 months old. Johnson noticed that, as time went on, other parents were enrolling their kids in sports while Nate was taken to various therapy appointments. Johnson discovered Hope Horses and enrolled his son.
“His behaviors have decreased tremendously over the years, and we have noticed an improvement in spine and motor skills,” said Johnson. “Nate finally had something to participate in, and we will forever be indebted to Hope Horses.”
Johnson continued, “Today, after seven years of riding, Nate still gets excited and has the biggest smile on his face when you turn off (Highway) 278 onto Convent Road. He absolutely loves it. He knows exactly where we are going.”
The evening also included a live and silent auction to raise funds for the program. Live music was provided by Avenue G.
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