Our guests experienced a fun and exciting evening on Saturday, September 17, when over 1,200 friends of The Shea Center gathered at the Center for the 44th Annual BBQ and Family Faire.  The event raised over $1 million (approximately 20% of our annual operating budget of $5.5M), including more than $440,000 for the Fosheim Rider Support Fund for priority programs, horse care, and financial aid.

The event offered an evening of nostalgic carnival games, riding demonstrations, a sponsor saloon, a petting zoo, barn tours, a yummy BBQ dinner, an online silent auction, line dancing lessons, live entertainment, the client Parade of Stars, a live auction, and dancing to country music.

A highlight of the evening included a video about client, Abigail, and how riding at The Shea Center has improved her abilities. You can view Abigail’s video by checking out her client spotlight blog.

Many thanks go to the more than 200 volunteers who helped during the event including Shea Center volunteers and the National Charity League Chapters of Laguna Beach, Monarch, Saddleback Valley, and Capistrano Coast.  Orange County Sheriff’s Explorers Post 449 assisted with VIP parking and traffic control.

Additional thanks go to the BBQ committee, headed by Bonnie Eastman; the BBQ sponsor team, led by Greg Talbott; The Shea Center board of directors, and The Shea Center staff.

Our sincere gratitude goes to the many auction donors, event donors, sponsors, and vendors who helped make this BBQ so successful.