'Boots And BBQ Festival' To Raise Funds For Horse Therapy For Kids, Adults

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Can horses help a child or adult dealing with post-traumatic stress, loss, or other challenges? A program in North Jersey has been providing that kind of care for 13 years. And a fun fundraiser on Saturday will help them continue.

The "Boots and Barbecue" fundraiser, which is free for kids 12 and under to attend, is for "Our Stable Life," Bergen Equestrian’s Equine Therapy Program. One doesn't have to ride horses to find them therapeutic.

• Want to post your non-profit event free on Patch? Use these instructions.

The "Boots and Barbecue" fundraiser is $25 per person 13 and over (again, kids 12 and under are free). All proceeds will benefit the program.

Besides music, line dancing, and barbecue food, there will be $2 pony rides for the kids. The event is presented by Discover Line Dance.

Organizers say, "This event will be bringing some amazing food including Smokin’ Mo’s Southern BBQ, Suki’s Sodas, an ice cream truck, $2 pony rides, and face painting too! Beginner line dance instruction and open dancing throughout the entire night also! Get ready to kick up your boots and dance the night away at this awesome fundraiser!"

Established in 2012, Our Stable Life is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides non-riding equine treatment and therapy programs for individuals and groups. The programs focus on prevention, education, healing, and assisted recovery.

the program partnered with Columbia University Irving Medical Center to create the Man O’ War Project, which uses and scientifically evaluates equine therapy to treat people who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other mental health problems.

"All of the programs at Our Stable Life are guided by qualified professionals for individuals of all ages," the organizers noted. "The therapeutic
benefits of Equine Therapy for individuals and families dealing with life challenges such as anxiety, isolation, addiction, loss of a loved one, phobias, adults, young adults or children with special needs and those suffering from symptoms of PTSD."

They added, "Our Stable Life will design a program for anyone needing intervention and healing. The grace of a horse enriches the body, mind, and spirit, resulting in true healing."

For more information or to schedule a session, call 201-336-3370.

Event Details

Saturday's event takes place at the Bergen Equestrian Center at Overpeck Park, 40 Fort Lee Road, Leonia.

The event takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. You can RSVP by texting or calling 551-999-1568.

To make a donation or for more information visit www.bergenequestriancenter.com.