Coachella Valley Horse Rescue holds annual 'Raising Hay' fundraiser

Coachella Valley Horse Rescue held its third annual "Raising Hay" fundraiser on Dec. 13 at J & J Ranch to help cover horse care and program scholarships, and the nonprofit runs therapeutic programs for veterans and underprivileged youth.

Coachella Valley Horse Rescue held its third annual "Raising Hay" fundraiser on Dec. 13 at the historic J & J Ranch in La Quinta. The rescue was founded in 2008 by Annette Garcia and Dave DiMeno to save, rehabilitate and rehome abandoned, abused, or neglected horses. CVHR operates programs for veterans and underprivileged youth, including Horsinalities Boot Camp, the Pony Club, and the Horse Tales Literacy Program. The event featured country music, line dancing, a barbecue and a silent auction, and was presented by John K. Miller Premier Real Estate Group. Notable details: - Founders and history: Annette Garcia and Dave DiMeno founded CVHR in 2008 to rescue and rehome horses. - Fundraiser specifics: The 3rd annual "Raising Hay" was held Dec. 13 at J & J Ranch and included a silent auction and community entertainment. - Sponsorship and venue: The presenting sponsor was John K. Miller Premier Real Estate Group; J & J Ranch is owned by John K. Miller and James L. Blanton. - Program focus: CVHR offers Horsinalities Boot Camp for veterans, Pony Club for youth (ages 6–18), and the Horse Tales Literacy Program for participants of all ages. - Costs and logistics: Funds are used for hay, supplements, medical and dental care, hoof care, transport of horses (including from other states) and scholarships; volunteers must be at least 18 years old. Summary: The fundraiser provided financial support for horse care, medical needs, transport and scholarships, helping sustain CVHR's rescue operations and program offerings for veterans and youth. The organization continues to run its on-site therapeutic and youth programs. Undetermined at this time.