It was like a heavy-handed reminder, no, it was a heavy-handed reminder.
The “it” was a fun fundraiser held Thursday for Greener Pastures, the B.C. Standardbred Horse Adoption Society.
The fundraiser included a 50-50 draw, several raffles, a silent auction, a toonie toss and a burger and beverage.
The result was a stellar turnout and to all who attended it was a reminder of all the work put in by a body of volunteers, both for the fundraiser and for the ongoing efforts to “change the lives of horses by retraining and finding loving homes for retired Standardbred race horses.”
Greener Pastures, who has adopted out more than 50 horses per year since its formation in 2003, has two locations, one in Mission and one in Aldergrove, where the horses are stabled. At any one time they may have from six to eight horses in their care.
There is a horse for all interested in adopting. There is JJ, a big boy, and Jewel, a 14.3-hand sweetheart who could fill the heart of any young girl, and others providing someone for all the family.
The volunteers work each day with the retraining of the horses and of course with that comes the duties of barn chores and daily grooming. That also means there are requirements such as brushes and grooming supplies, halters and lead ropes, tack and blankets and feed.
It all takes money and Greener Pastures does a fine job in seeking donations. They also hold a 50-50 draw each race day at Fraser Downs racetrack in Surrey. However, they always could use more help with volunteering, donations and new members in the Society.
Anyone interested can follow Greener Pastures on Facebook, on its website or call 604-613-2279 for more information.
(Brian Mainman / Greener Pastures)