HorseSense Fall Harvest Festival fundraiser returns this weekend to Coon Valley

HorseSense has its 5th annual Fall Harvest Festival this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the farm in Coon Valley (map).

This family-friendly event will gather supporters for an afternoon of fall-themed festivities to raise funds for HorseSense’s therapeutic horseback riding program.

HorseSense executive director, Samantha Hall, told Z93 the organization offers therapeutic horseback riding lessons for youth, adults and military veterans with disabilities.

“The spectrum of riders is really wide but it’s really that heart and connection with the horse and that one-on-one time up at the farm and riding with that animal,” Hall said.

She added that lessons are therapeutic on many levels.

“We do help a wide variety of people that come up and engage with the horses and do lessons just for stress relief, and anxiety relief,” Hall said. “That bond with the horse is really what people are after. It’s a mental escape from just the craziness of life. But, physical benefits, too, can help a multitude of riders.”

The event’s main feature will spotlight the heart and soul of the organization’s mission to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities through a partnership with a horse.

A special showcase of performances will take place at 1 p.m. by the very individuals who benefit from HorseSense: youth, adults and veterans with disabilities.

“The community can really learn the goal for the rider, why they came and got therapeutic riding lessons with HorseSense, and how it’s benefiting them,” Hall said. “So, you actually get to give a little sneak peek of what they’re working on with us and see how it benefits that individual person.”

Pre-sale tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for youth under 17, and family admission for up to 5 individuals is $35, available online or at the event.

CLICK HERE for more information and tickets, and RSVP to their Facebook event for updates.