Have you been to a barn dance lately?
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 26/10/2022 (222 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
I was recently asked by a friend to attend a barn dance to support a good cause…Urban Stable. I was not even sure what a barn dance was, but it sounded like fun, so I said “Sure!” And I’m glad I did.
Urban Stable is a registered charity that has been around for over 20 years. They use horses to connect with youth who may be facing obstacles and adversity. They do this through hands-on learning to help the young people achieve more confidence, patience and personal growth. The testimonials on their web site show how important this program can be.
I had heard of organizations using horses and other animals to connect with people. The animals chosen for these programs have a wonderful temperament and, in this case, the young people develop strong bonds with the horses.
Photo by John Hindle
Urban Stable recently held a barn dance to raise funds for its program, which uses horses to interact with at-risk youth.
The event was held at a stable near Stonewall in an indoor barn/arena. You brought your own lawn chair and sat on the sandy floor. Dinner included some great food catered by Danny’s Whole Hog BBQ & Smokehouse along with dessert from Dairy Queen. A wooden dance floor was erected in front of the band and there were people on the dance floor most of the night. The Dust Rhinos provided the entertainment and were a big hit.
An auction was held to raise money for the programs and the cost of caring for the horses. Dez Daniels, local radio personality and host of Great Tastes of Manitoba, was MC and auctioneer.
Pictures and descriptions of the horses lined a wall in the arena. Attendees could see how much their donation would contribute to their care and well-being. The enthusiasm in the room was fun to be a part of and the organization far surpassed its fundraising goal for the evening. Every dollar counts for smaller charities.
I will admit that, for the most part, I am a city slicker, having lived most of my life in Winnipeg. But I also love the country, and the appeal of being at a stable was strong. I haven’t been around horses a lot but find the creatures quite majestic. It is no surprise to me that horses can create a bond with youth and adults alike.
Urban Stable sold me on the success of its programs, and I intend to support the organization moving forward. I was even more impressed when I found out the enthusiastic young man handing out bidding slips during the auction was a graduate of the program and wanted to give back. That speaks clearly about the success of the program.
If this sounds like an organization you would like to support, check out their web site www.urbanstable.ca
John Hindle
Community Correspondent — St. Vital
John Hindle is a community correspondent for St. Vital. Email him at john@johnhindle.com