Hearts & Horses Bets Big on Virtual Event with Rascal Flats, Virtual Poker and Auctions

For 20 years, the Hearts & Horses Lucky Hearts Gala has given attendees the opportunity to roll the dice, double down and place bets during the popular casino-themed fundraising event. Now, this year, the nonprofit is gambling on a new virtual format on Saturday, Oct. 10 and it’s paying off. The nonprofit just announced the appearance of Rascal Flatts as their musical entertainment during the event and is now betting on the support and generosity of their long-time supporters, Colorado community and equine family to tune in, donate and support their organization.

While other nonprofits have postponed and rescheduled their events, Hearts & Horses Therapeutic Riding Center decided to forge ahead with a re-imagined Lucky Hearts Gala event 6:30-8 pm on Saturday, Oct. 10 that’ll be free to attend in a live streamed format in their website – www.heartsandhorses.org and Facebook featuring Rascal Flatts, entertainment, a live and silent auction and a new series of inspirational videos.

Rascal Flatts has been called one of the most influential groups in modern country music with 17 number one hits, including the popular “Prayin’ for Daylight,” more than 23.4 million albums sold. The trio will perform during the live stream event that viewers will only be able to see during the program.

“We are thrilled to welcome Rascal Flatts and be able to gather our community virtually to celebrate together and to help fund the critical work that we do through Hearts & Horses,” says Jan Pollema, executive director for Hearts & Horses, one of Northern Colorado’s most beloved nonprofits with one of the largest volunteer programs in Larimer County. “Despite the challenges of COVID-19, we’re even more determined to fulfill our mission of promoting the physical, cognitive, emotional and social well-being of people with special needs through equine-assisted activities and therapies. We know we have an opportunity to gather our community and work together to raise funds to continue our critical work, that’s needed more now than ever with the increasing mental health and public health issues. We know that our programs at Hearts & Horses make a positive impact and we owe it to our participants and students to find a safe and effective way to continue to raise funds so we can continue to offer our services that help them.”

According to Pollema, The Hearts & Horses Lucky Hearts Gala is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its biggest fundraiser for its programs and offerings. Last year, the organization’s Gala raised more than $350,000 with 700+ attendees. In 2020, the nonprofit is hoping to increase the attendance and match the funds raised at last year’s in-person event, says Kathryn Yuma, development and communications manager for Hearts & Horses. We have several unique items and experiences available in the auction including a high-roller table at poker night with Ryan Spilborghs and the Colorado Rockies. 

For more information, please visit https://www.heartsandhorses.org/lucky-hearts-gala