The Second Annual Giddy Up Gala was a huge success for the horses. 150 people came out to enjoy a sit down dinner, open bar and tons of entertainment at the beautiful College of Central Florida Vintage Farm Campus on Saturday, November 16th.

This year’s theme: A Mini Mystery:  the Case of the Missing Carrot, was a big hit! We had fun helping the guests solve the caper.

Guests were greeted by the HPAF staff and given their detective badges, then the Miracle Mini “suspects” all dressed up in their finest, escorted them into the venue.

The event Program was styled like an old-fashioned newspaper and was loaded with clues. Guests also picked up clues from the Interrogation Videos and other random places. One was even taped to the bottom of their chairs. In the end, guests cast their votes to ID who stole the missing carrot and one very lucky guest won a diamond bracelet courtesy of Lemieux Diamond Company. All of the runners up received Spirit Walk Gift Certificates.

The Gala was the official launch of our Steadfast Through the Seasons Campaign – a call for monthly donation commitments to provide a stable base of support for the horses that they can depend upon in all seasons. It was a great success with many new donors answering the call.

To see more photos from the Gala, visit our full gallery page. Photos expertly provided by Sean Dowie Photography.

Horse Protection was very honored to receive the Community Service Award from the Levy County Sheriffs Office for our dedication in rescuing and saving countless horses’ lives. Here, Executive Director Christine Massinger receives the Award from Detective Gary Garboski of the Levy County Sheriff’s Office.

“The Horse Protection Association of Florida hosts another commendable event highlighting their tireless efforts to safeguard and rehabilitate neglected and abandoned horses. So special to share in this event with my friends who love and honor these wonderful animals.”

“Giddy Up Gala. Great cause. Great people.”