Carousel Ranch returned with its annual Open House and Pancake breakfast with this year’s theme “Hearts for Heroes” on Saturday.
The event, which was expected to draw about 75 people, invited guests to enjoy fresh flapjacks made by students in the “Ready to Work!” program and take photos with Fiona the horse, all in support of the nonprofit organization’s final week of its monthlong fundraising campaign.
The theme of “Hearts of Heroes” was a way to thank first responders and volunteers who are crucial to running Carousel Ranch successfully, Executive Director Taylor Adachi said while welcoming guests.
“We’ve really collaborated to kind of celebrate our heroes and share their love. Even our volunteer heroes, people who have come and partnered with us this month long to help us raise money for our students,” Adachi said, adding that over 60 volunteers work behind the scenes to provide the programming essential to help children and young adults with special needs.
As of Saturday morning, the organization had raised $105,000 of its $120,000 goal and Adachi added they extended their campaign one additional week because “we really want to try to get to our goal,” she said.
Sherri Davidson was arriving to the fundraiser with her daughter, Kayla, and the rest of the family to enjoy a breakfast under the warm sun and be of support to the program that has helped Kayla develop into the woman she is today.
Kayla is the second longest-participating rider for Carousel Ranch’s equestrian program, beginning her journey at 7 years old when she didn’t walk at all, said Davidson. Now at 33 years old, Kayla didn’t just learn how to walk again after riding horses, but she also found something that’s hers.
Like many youth growing up, it’s essential for them to have hobbies, Davidson said. Some may enjoy soccer, while others may enjoy dancing, and for Kayla horse riding became her hobby and an important part of her.
“She’s grown here. Socializing is really important to her. It’s the best therapy for her but they don’t know it’s therapy — it’s something for her to be proud of,” Davidson said.
When asked if she wanted to share anything, Kayla simply said, “I ride horses” with a smile, before she and her family went over to greet others within the organization who were present.
Throughout the morning, guests could also take the time to witness young adults in the “Ready to Work!” program, which is a vocational training for special needs adults who often “age out” of the education system and other programs.
Board member Denny Twigg’s son Dom joined the “Ready to Work!” program, which gave him the tools needed to succeed with his independence.
Some skills Dom developed within the program include social skills and cooking, which has led to independent living. Twiggs emphasized the importance of programs like “Ready to Work!” which doesn’t just give adults with needs the tools to thrive, but also in a place where such programs across Los Angeles County don’t really exist.
“A lot of families don’t know where to go,” Twigg said in relation to when families seek additional resources to help their loved ones who have special needs.
Local partnerships among restaurants where the students are given a chance to put their learning into real world practice have also proven that adults with special needs “are great workers, they show up on time, and they’re reliable,” Twiggs said.
Board member Pam Ingram also noted that the equestrian program is one place where students with special needs have really let their personality shine through.
One instance was of her friend’s son, who never reacted to things but once he got on a horse, “you would see him smile. He wouldn’t do that any place else but put him on the back of a horse … it’s very therapeutic.”
To donate to Carousel Ranch’s fundraising campaign, you can visit: tinyurl.com/bdhcjr5k.
