Gala 2026

At Melody’s Haven of Hope at Oregon Horsemanship, every horse in our care arrived because they needed a second chance. These are horses who were let down by humans—discarded when they could no longer serve a purpose and often carrying both physical pain and emotional trauma. We take them in, address complex medical needs, and—just as importantly—help them relearn how to trust again. For many, this is their forever home. They are never asked to earn their keep and are given safety, consistency, and dignity for life. While the cost of this level of care is significant, the result is extraordinary: horses who once shut down begin to heal, soften, and reconnect.

As these horses heal, they give something remarkable in return. Through our youth programs, rescued horses partner with young people—many struggling with anxiety, depression, learning challenges, or disconnection in today’s fast-paced world. In the quiet presence of the herd, youth learn confidence, responsibility, empathy, communication, and problem-solving. They don’t just “work with horses”—they build real relationships. The horses teach life skills that reach far beyond the barn, while the youth help the horses rebuild strength, trust, and emotional balance. Healing flows both ways.

Tahlia is one of those horses. She began her life as a capable ranch horse—working rodeos, gathering cattle, and covering countless trail miles. As she aged and physical and emotional challenges emerged, she was sold repeatedly. Each home meant well but lacked the horsemanship knowledge she needed. In just five months, Tahlia passed through four homes. By the time she arrived with us, she was severely underweight, her coat dull, her body scarred, and her spirit guarded. She stood frozen, unsure of what might happen next. We couldn’t say no. What followed was a long journey of rebuilding trust and uncovering serious medical needs. Severe arthritis and old injuries meant Tahlia would never again carry a rider. While some suggested euthanasia because she could no longer be “useful,” we knew better. Tahlia has an enormous heart and so much to give simply by being who she is. As long as she is comfortable, she will always have a home with us.

Today, horses like Tahlia help heal humans—especially youth—just as much as we help heal them. Through connection, groundwork, liberty, and presence, our sanctuary horses teach confidence, empathy, responsibility, and emotional regulation. Youth who struggle find grounding and purpose alongside horses who deeply understand resilience. This partnership changes lives on both sides of the lead rope.

Sponsorships and donations from the Hearts & Hooves Gala are essential to sustaining this cycle of rescue and renewal. Your support directly funds hay, grain, veterinary and dental care, farrier services, medications, and specialized treatment for our sanctuary horses—while also allowing us to continue offering meaningful, life-changing programs for youth. When you give, you are not just supporting a horse or a program—you are investing in second chances, lifelong care, and a future where horses and humans heal together.

To support the continuation of this work, on May 2, 2026, we will host the 3rd Annual Hearts & Hooves Fundraising Gala for Melody’s Haven of Hope at Oregon Horsemanship at the beautiful Carver Event Center in Happy Valley, Oregon. We invite you to consider sponsoring and/or donating to this special event. Sponsorship opportunities range from a $100 business card placement to higher-level sponsorships. Tax-deductible donations are accepted through our nonprofit fiscal sponsor, Chappy & Friends, at https://www.pledge.to/gala-2026 or by texting GALA2026 to 707070. We are also happy to discuss custom sponsorship opportunities.

Your generosity ensures quality veterinary and specialist care, proper nutrition, safe housing, and comfort for our aging sanctuary herd—while allowing us to continue serving youth who benefit deeply from the healing presence of these horses. These horses have already given so much. With your help, we can give them the care, comfort, and love they deserve for the rest of their lives.

Warmest wishes from the Herd,
Letitia Weikel-Peterson
Founder, Melody’s Haven of Hope at Oregon Horsemanship