With the general invitation mailing for Carousel Ranch 23rd Annual Dinner, Auction, and Children’s Riding Demonstration set to hit mailboxes this week, organizers confirmed they are already two-thirds of the way to a sold-out event.

The event, presented by Princess Cruises Community Foundation, will be held on Saturday, Aug. 24, starting at 6:00 p.m. on the grounds of Carousel Ranch, located at 34289 Rocking Horse Road in Agua Dulce.

“It is both amazing and overwhelming how this event has grown to what it has become today, and especially for the support we receive from the community for our kids and the work that we do,” said Denise Redmond, executive director of Carousel Ranch. “Each year we sell out earlier than previous years, which is testimony to the support and encouragement we are so fortunate to receive toward fulfilling our mission.” Since 1997, the Ranch has provided equestrian therapy for children with disabilities. The nonprofit added its Ready-to-Work vocational training program three years ago for young adults with special needs.

For this year’s Heart of the West event, over 420 seats have been reserved to date out of a maximum 650 seat capacity. “Our sponsor list continues to grow,” relayed Redmond.

“This is where the magic happens,” Carousel Ranch Board President Marianne Cederlind offered referring to the Ranch property that hosts the annual event on its vast grounds. “The comraderies of the people who attend create a unique opportunity for the community to gather, witness first-hand the transformative potential of equestrian therapy, and empower guests with the capacity to open their hearts to the children of Carousel Ranch.”

The evening begins by showcasing four student horseback demonstrations in the outside arena area. “Our students inspire me to be a better person,” said Cederlind. “To witness the sheer joy equestrian therapy brings to their lives despite the incredible personal challenges they face puts my own life into perspective.”

“Heart of the West is a magical evening with the excitement of fabulous live and silent auctions, great food, music, line-dancing and, most important, a demonstration by the kids that we have all come together to support,” Cederlind continued. “These beautiful children serve to remind us all that anything is possible.”

A gourmet dinner catered by Salt Creek Grille will be served during a live auction, and more than 250 silent auction items will be available for bid. The festivities continue after dinner as guests experience ‘Heart of the West After Dark’ in the Western Town, which features a live band, dancing and casino games.

Sponsorship opportunities range from $375 to $8,000; individual tickets are priced at $100 for general seating and $200 for VIP seating. Guests are encouraged to reserve early. Visit www.carouselranch.org or phone (661) 268.8010.

About Carousel Ranch:
Founded in 1997, Carousel Ranch, Inc. provides equestrian therapy and vocational training programs for children and young adults with disabilities. By creating unique and individualized programs to meet each student’s specific needs and goals, the Ranch strives to create an atmosphere where every child and young adult can and will succeed… a place where therapy is disguised as fun. The equestrian therapy program utilizes a combination of vaulting (gymnastics on a moving horse) and therapeutic riding (both English and Western). The Ready-to-Work! program, which began in 2016, is a unique work readiness, job training and social entrepreneurship program for young adults with special needs interested in joining the workforce. Carousel Ranch is located at 34289 Rocking Horse Road, Santa Clarita, California 91390. For more information call Carousel Ranch at (661) 268.8010 or visit www.CarouselRanch.org.