Put on your best clothes and bring your desire to help a great cause!
The Retreat Gala will take place tomorrow, June 12, at 7:00 p.m. to benefit the Retreat at Beckleysville which is a therapeutic riding program that serves adults and children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities. The evening will include food, dancing and an excellent silent auction.
The upscale benefit takes place at the lovely Cloisters Castle in Pikesville, MD. Tickets to the event are $65 apiece. Catering is compliments of the Manor Tavern and music will be provided by the outstanding DJ Wreckord. Silent auction items include a two-day stay at a beautiful St. Michaels bed and breakfast, a riding lesson with Hunt Cup winning jockey Mark Beecher, a diamond cocktail ring, VIP package to the Maryland Million, a week in Las Vegas and much more. Cocktail attire is appropriate and attendees must be at least 21 years of age.
The Retreat at Beckleysville, run by director and founder Mary Shunk, has been serving children and adults with various disabilities for 30 years. Shunk also functions as Co-Director of Equestrian Sports for Maryland Special Olympics which a number of her students participate in. All of the activity at the Retreat at Beckleysville requires Shunk’s skills and the help of many volunteers.
Dr. Lisalee D. Egbert, mother of a disabled rider, said that the benefits of therapeutic and competitive riding include “empathy, responsibility, self-worth, and a wealth of pride in competition [which] have empowered him beyond the riding arena.”
The multifaceted program focuses not only on therapeutic and competitive riding, but also on providing a home for retired horses. Director Mary Shunk said of the Retreat Gala, “It is very expensive to keep 16 horses, many of whom are older and need extra care. These wonderful horses are one of the reasons this program works. They offer students joy, new skills, independence… Our riders also need specialized equipment that can be pricey…this benefit is going to be a real blessing.”
To learn more or buy tickets: Visit the Retreat’s website or check them out on Facebook!
