Photos: Abijah’s on the Backside
Lakeville Rotary Club’s new Kentucky Derby-themed gala supports Abijah’s on the Backside.
On April 20, enjoy a night of dinner, cocktails and meaningful change. The first ever Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Gala is a collaboration between the Lakeville Rotary Club and Abijah’s on the Backside, and the event aims to bring awareness to mental health and improve access to necessary resources. The evening starts at 5:30 p.m., at Brackett’s Crossing Country Club in Lakeville.
The proceeds from this gala will go towards Abijah’s Scholarship Fund. This fund provides free access to Abijah on the Backside’s services for military personnel and first responders, as well as their families.
Abijah on the Backside offers a unique healing experience. Founded by Sally Mixon, this experience combines retired thoroughbred racing horses and professional counselors to help aid mental health issues. Horses are intuitive animals and have been an integral part of these healing services.
“Our program not only prepares these incredible thoroughbreds for their next career—saving lives—but also offers crucial support to individuals grappling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation,” Mixson says. “Abijah’s serves as a vital link between the racing industry and the mental health field, providing a welcoming, non-threatening environment where healing can happen.”
The Lakeville Rotary Club has dedicated itself to making meaningful changes within communities using a hands-on approach. From youth programs to galas, the organization employs a range of strategies to help address the needs of the community.
“We invite the community to join us in this noble cause and be a catalyst for positive change,” Kathy Vonhof, of the Lakeville Rotary Club, says.
Abijah’s on the Backside
Facebook: Abijah’s on the Backside
Instagram: @abijahsonthebackside
