Haven House fundraiser Sept. 16

The 34th annual Haven House Trail Ride will be Saturday, Sept. 16.

The event will be hosted by Larry and Robyn Hillis on the property that had previously been used for the trail ride when it was owned by Ted and Cindy Evans. The Hillis family has allowed the ride to return now that they operate the farm in the Pine Cone area on Highway 67 north.

Last year, riders brought in a record-breaking $28,000, said Haven House Executive Director Amber Tinker.

While participation in the ride is free, riders collect pre-paid pledges from family, friends and businesses to compete for prizes. The first three finishers will be determined by the total of pre-paid pledges presented at registration, and the selection of prizes will be based on their finishing order.

Riders who plan to participate in the fundraising event may want to begin gathering sponsors to vie for the first, second and third place prizes which are $1,500, $1,000 and $750 VISA gift cards.

Prizes will be based on the total pre-paid pledges. As usual, all riders, both gaited and non-gaited, who register with a minimum of $25 in pledges will receive a commemorative T-shirt, and will be eligible to win an array of door prizes donated by local businesses.

A continental breakfast, as well as a barbecue lunch of pulled pork sandwiches provided by board member Jerry Hillis, will be served.

Haven House, which was established in 1985, is a 31-bed facility providing shelter and advocacy services for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault.

The shelter not only provides a safe harbor for families in need, families also are provided food and hygiene products at no cost, as well as peer support groups and individual counseling.

A 24-hour hotline is available for those in need of a listening ear, information, or assistance with a safety plan to remove themselves from a bad situation.

Advocates always are available for anyone affected by these issues. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, the hotline number to call is 573-686-5064 or you can text 573-429-5730, for outreach services or to obtain additional information about trail ride call 573-686-4873.