Carousel Ranch invited community members Saturday to support equestrian therapy and vocational training programs for children and young adults with disabilities at the 22nd annual “Heart of the West.”

Carousel Ranch hosted the event to show off the horseback riding demonstrations by the children of the ranch, as well as to raise funds for the organization’s programs.

Since 1997, Carousel Ranch has been providing developmental therapeutic and recreational programs for disabled and disadvantaged children through the use of horses.

“Therapy lessons are disguised as fun in an atmosphere where every child can succeed,” said Carousel Ranch officials. “The movement of the horse causes an inherent response from the child, relaxing muscles that are tight, increasing tone in muscles that are weak, building balance, coordination and control.”

The therapeutic treatments are put in place so that people who have spent their lives in wheelchairs have an opportunity to be placed on a horse and feel what it’s like to be able to “walk” for the first time.

“It can take years to train a horse, staff and volunteers,” said ranch officials. “Money raised goes a long way toward meeting the goals to serve a large number of children.”

Surrounded by western charm, guests were able to enjoy dinner catered by Salt Creek Grille, live and silent auctions, line dancing and a casino.

All proceeds from the event were gathered for programs at Carousel Ranch, adding to the $3.5 million that has been raised since the inception of the event 22 years ago.

Items within the auctions garnered most of the donations, which included a Mammoth Mountain trip, Dodger Dugout Club tickets and tickets to Elton John’s sold-out performance at the Staples Center.

During the event, Carousel Ranch officials also took the time to honor the Crawford family “for their dedication, support and work they have done over the past 16 years.”

With three generations of philanthropists, the family has been involved with fundraisers that have made a positive impact for the students who receive services from the ranch.

“I definitely think Carousel Ranch is a unique approach in therapy and absolutely beneficial for my son. I think it’s made a world of a difference for him and he has fun,” said Christopher Ochoa’s mother.

For more information about Carousel Ranch, visit the website here.

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