“When we are motivated by compassion and wisdom, the results of our actions benefit everyone, not just our individual selves or some immediate convenience. When we are able to recognize and forgive ignorant actions of the past, we gain strength to constructively solve the problems of the present.”
― Dalai Lama XIV
On May 28, 2016 Between Horses and Humans (BHH) was reminded that compassion is most definitely alive and well. Through the generosity and compassion of the Wild Rose Inn in Genoa, Nevada, BHH supporters, friends, family and volunteers, the First Annual BHH May Gala raised approximately $14,000. The entire proceeds will go directly to the operation of the BHH program to help at-risk and struggling youth of Douglas County and surrounding areas.
Dave and Jeannette Bostedt, the owners of the Wild Rose Inn, along with their daughter Sierra, have been so compassionate. They have done so much to make the May Gala a success. They not only put in countless hours preparing, arranging, and organizing, but they also got their family members and friends (many from the Bay area) involved. There are far too many activities and contributions to mention specifically. Needless to say it takes a phenomenal amount of effort to bring together an event such as the BHH May Gala.
Dave created a wine cabinet from old barn wood & chicken wire for the wine raffle – it was an amazing piece of art. Jeannette rented tents and set up the location. Sierra coordinated flyers and ticket sales, and helped with all kinds of preparations. Jeannette’s friends baked delicious, beautiful desserts. Their families traveled long distances to attend. Many of their friends and family donated wine.
The event was spectacular. About 70 guests were in attendance, dressed in their finest garb. Men wore dress pants and suit jackets, and ladies wore elegant dresses. There were even some dashing gentlemen in tuxedos. Guests were excited for the opportunity be manly or ladylike in an elegant, beautiful setting. There was a lot of velvet on display. BHH President Barbara Slade wore a full velvet skirt-jacket combination and velvet gloves, and she was grateful for the extra warmth because it was 43 degrees that night with a very chilly wind and even some light rain at times. But the weather didn’t deter anyone – it simply gave everyone an excellent excuse to dance to the sounds of the band Mixed Company!
The three tents Jeannette had rented were put together to make one large tent, and the heaters (also kindly rented by the Bostedts) helped with warmth too. The tents had two clear sides so guests got to appreciate the beautiful terraced gardens on the grounds of the Wild Rose Inn. The fresh rain meant the garden was simply radiant. It was a perfect setting to enjoy the wonderful meal catered by Ron Benedetti. Tables were sponsored by the Wild Rose Inn and Maddi’s Friesian Ranch.
The wine auction was the talk of the evening. Dave’s wine cabinet was filled with wine, all of which was donated for the event. Guests could buy an old style key for $10 to participate in the raffle. Throughout the evening the MC would give each person an opportunity to open the locks of the wine cabinet. The person who opened first lock won the top shelf of wine and so on for each of the three shelves. Each key came with an elegant, handmade tag showing the BHH logo and a picture or saying. The keys made a great memento, even if the guest didn’t win any wine. This event was fun for everyone, and contributed almost $800 to the fundraising efforts.
Four of the BHH program participants attended the gala, and three of them spoke. It was an excellent opportunity for the children to speak from their hearts about what BHH means to them. It was also an opportunity for the guests to see first hand how their contribution was being used to change the lives of young people.
The event was sponsored by the Wild Rose Inn, Smiths Food and Drug Store in Gardnerville, Maxton, Debbie Hemphill, and Maddi’s Friesian Ranch, as well as many other individuals. The Record-Courier ran an article and included the event in their calendar throughout May. The compassion and love of so many was on display in all aspects of the Gala.
All of the volunteers and participants contributed to the event’s success with a joyful heart and upbeat enthusiasm. It was such a great way to give back to BHH & make a difference while enjoying a fabulous evening. The first year of any fundraising event can be difficult and one never knows precisely what to expect. It is safe to say this year’s event provided an excellent platform from which to launch this annual gala. There’s no doubt the attendees will be back for more next year and will tell all their friends not to miss out. As Barbara Slade says, “If you change the life of one child, it’s brilliant. You were in service and you’ve done enough. But we have the ability to change the lives of so many, which is such a blessing.”
BHH wishes to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who made the May Gala such a blessing! You are proof-positive that compassion is alive and well.
