Chris Iverson, Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty *
Ligara Farms, Joe Heinrich & Susan Crenshaw
Anne Van Camp & Peter Van Vlasselaer *
Jewels ($5,000+)
Bayhill Equine
Andrea & Christopher Dehner *
Fast Response On-Site Testing, Inc., Casey &
Sandra Terribilini *
Connie & Bob Lurie
Lyell Wealth Management, Peri Soyugenc
Peninsula Bay Trust Company, Paul and Donna Barulich *
Jeans ($2,500+)
Karen & Jerry Bertrand
Geraldine Cacianti
Gina & Michael Cicciarelli
Firehouse Bistro & Pioneer Saloon, Bill & Lee
Ann Gilbert *
Susan Lang & Robert Levenson *
Mounted Patrol Foundation
Webb Builders, Inc.
Boots ($1,000+)
Karen Arimoto-Peterson
Wendy Arnold
Nancy Contro *
Don DeFranco
Eleanor & Roy Ferrari
Lauren & Jake Frenz
David & Andrea Hayes
Paul & Tiffany Hoffman
Anonymous (1)
Cheryl Basin
Nicola & Derek Liu *
Heidi Ingram
Wendy Lee & Mike Keenly
Suzanne Legallet
Susan Martin *
Jenny C. Smith & John Boone *
Karie & David Thomson
Woodside Community Foundation
Spurs ($500+)
Dana & John Perine
Girvin & Lesley Peters
Suzanne Rischman
Wendy & Michael Lucas
Sarah & Doug Rivers
* Denotes NCEFT Board of Directors or Advisory Council Member
List updated as of 9/1
Evening Program
4:30 pm
Cocktail Hour
Begin your evening by connecting with friends over a cocktail or glass of wine and enjoy other pre-Gala festivities, including live music, photos, and an event favorite, Mystery Box Drawing! Head to the barn where you’ll meet NCEFT’s horses and bid on one-of-a-kind equine experiences in the Silent Auction.
5:30 pm
Dinner
The evening will move into full swing under the twinkling lights of our covered arena with traditions such as the NCEFT Mounted Color Guard, the singing of the national anthem, and a 3-course dinner by Chef Silva of Melon’s Catering & Events.
6:45 pm
Program Begins
Raise your bid cards generously! NCEFT relies on your support to help keep our programs going all year round! All proceeds directly support children and adults with disabilities and mental health challenges.
A Note from our Executive Director
Dear Friends,
Welcome to our 14th Annual Heroes and Horses Gala! I want to extend my sincerest appreciation for your generous support of our organization. We are honored to partner with you as we move forward bringing hope and healing to our community. You play a pivotal role in our mission to empower individuals of all abilities to lead fulfilling and happy lives. It is through your unwavering support that we are able to continue to do life changing work partnering horses and humans in unique and profound ways.
We humbly request your continued support as we embark on a journey to reach even more people in need. Your contribution is critical to our ongoing success and together we can create even more opportunities to foster inclusion, serve those in need, and transform lives. Tonight and every night we ask you to keep our clients and horses front of mind and selflessly give so that NCEFT can continue to flourish. The needs of those with disabilities and mental health challenges have skyrocketed in the past few years and we remain steadfast in our mission to address them.
We are immensely grateful for your generosity and belief in our work.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Nancy Contro, MSW, LCSW Executive Director
Menu
Presented by Melon’s Catering & Events, Stephen Silva, Executive Chef
Passed Hors D’Oeuvres
Pesto Chicken
pine nut pesto and aged balsamic (gluten-free, dairy-free)
Cooper-Garrod Vineyards at Garrod Farms (Saratoga, CA)
J. Lohr Vineyards (San Jose, CA)
La Honda Winery Evans Vineyard (Woodside, CA)
W.L. Butler Family Cellars (Woodside, CA)
Before coming here, I was very anxious all the time about school. I learned a lot about myself and really feel like I’ve grown as a person. I’m really proud of myself because I took a step forward into a new chapter in my life. I love the horses and people at NCEFT.”
- Mental Health & Resiliency program client (high school student)
About NCEFT
Horses. Hope. Healing.
Three simple words that when combined have the power to transform lives.
Located in Woodside, California on the San Francisco Peninsula, NCEFT is internationally recognized as a pioneer and leader of equine-assisted programs. Since 1971, NCEFT has tapped into the profound rehabilitative power of the human-horse relationship to facilitate healing for thousands of children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities and mental health challenges.
Pairing licensed therapists and certified practitioners with horses is at the heart of NCEFT’s programming, which includes: Physical therapy, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health & Resiliency, Adaptive Riding, Adaptive Learning and Recreational programs.
$75,527
Financial Assistance dollars spent for low income program participants in the last year.
$55,401
Veterans and 1st Responder
Restricted Financial Assistance dollars spent in the last year.
Nothing lifts the spirit of a special needs parent like seeing their child, taller than they ever imagined, stronger than they knew, sauntering along on one of Earth’s most beautiful creatures, with gifted and compassionate people right beside them, making certain they work hard, have fun, and return to Earth again safe and sound.” - Parent of Adaptive Riding Client
What’s in your Mystery Box?
It’s a mystery! Purchase a mystery box and hang onto it! We will all unwrap our boxes at the same time.
We thank our generous supporters for donating the exciting items and experiences waiting in our mystery boxes!
Mystery Boxes
100 boxes, $100 per box ~$17,000 worth of treasures!
• Schumacher Photography Family Photo Session: $1,675
• South Point Hotel Las Vegas Gift Package - Hotel, Dinner, Spa: $1,000
• Chef Chantale Cooking Class for Six: $800
• 3-Hour Sailing Trip with Captain Kirk’s San Francisco Sailing: $600
• Horseback trail ride + wine tasting for 4 at Garrod Farms: $560
• SkinSpirit (Spa) $200 Gift Certificate + $320 worth of Skin Care Products: $540
• Handmade Quilt (inspired by NCEFT’s horse Aldi) by Emily Hambel: $450
• Photo Session with Allison Menke Photography: $300
• Acadmeny of Sciences Gift Certifiate: $250
• Tickets:
SF Moma
American Conservatory Theater
Oakland A’s
Grand National Rodeo
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
• And much more!
Silent Auction
Head out to the barn and place your bid! All silent auction items are described on clipboards at the horse stalls. All proceeds directly benefit NCEFT’s programs.
Adaptive Riding + NCEFT Tour Experience*
A truly unique riding experience where you’ll see for yourself how NCEFT’s certified instructors and exceptional equine partners work together to provide this empowering service for clients of all ages and backgrounds. Follow up your time in the saddle with refreshments and a private tour of our facilities and the opportunity to meet the rest of our very special herd.
Hippotherapy + NCEFT Tour Experience*
Experience the power of equine-assisted therapy. Feel for yourself how our skilled physical and occupational therapists harness equine movement to facilitate functional outcomes in areas like core stabilization, postural control, protective reflexes, motor planning and so much more. With boots back on the ground, enjoy refreshments and a tour of our facilities and take a moment to engage with the rest of our talented herd.
Horsemanship
+ Tour Experience for 2
Engage from the ground in carefully planned equine activities designed to foster the powerful connections between humans and horses. This handson horsemanship experience explores how horses communicate, think, and thrive and offers an unforgettable opportunity to build community with our special equine partners. Round out your visit with refreshments and a tour of our beautiful facility.
Decompression Session + Tour Experience
Embark on a therapeutic journey through conversation, meditation, and mindful grooming. See how our licensed mental health therapists weave together the healing power of horses and the serene nature that abounds at NCEFT to provide an experience designed to support self-discovery and elevate your wellbeing. Includes refreshments.
Retreat + Tour Experience for group up to 6
Ignite your group’s synergy and break down barriers with this carefully curated group retreat! Invite your team to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of NCEFT’s facility and build connections through unmounted horse activities and other exercises thoughtfully designed to foster teamwork, enhance communication, and lower stress (includes refreshments).
All auction items must be redeemed by July 31, 2024 *Weight limit of 200 lbs for mounted activities
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” - Lao Tzu
Meet Monika Bickert: Featured Client Speaker
Monika began her journey at NCEFT a year ago following a debilitating accident. She is currently working with her equine partner, Woody, in NCEFT’s Adaptive Riding program. In her life outside of NCEFT Monika is Meta’s head of global policy management where she is Vice-President for Content Policy.
She previously served as assistant US attorney for the Department of Justice for eleven years, prosecuting federal crimes ranging from public corruption to gang-related violence. Monika also spent several years serving as resident legal advisor at the US embassy in Bangkok, Thailand.
Monika and her husband live on the peninsula with their dog, Penny, a 3-year-old Doberman rescue. She has two daughters and three step-sons, and all but one are now out of the house!
Photo credit: Aaron Alvarez Mendoza Photography
Fund-A-Need
How the Fund-A-Need Works:
The auctioneer will call out various giving levels, from high to low. Raise your bid card at the level right for you. All Fund-A-Need donations are 100% tax deductible and support NCEFT’s general operations, staff, horses, clients, and programs.
Donors are providing funds to cover the cost of keeping our therapy horses happy and healthy for at least one year. There is no transfer of ownership or rights either express or implied. Funds may be used to cover expenses for horses that NCEFT leases from private owners, but will only be used for horses being utilized in NCEFT’s programming.
Photo credit: Aaron Alvarez Mendoza Photography
Health, Happiness & Hay
A heartfelt Fund-A-Need awaits, offering the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of both NCEFT’s equine herd and the clients they serve. Funds provided will sponsor care of NCEFT’s horses, providing vital training, exercising, feed, bedding, shoes, and veterinary care. In addition to ensuring the well-being of our equine partners, bidders also help to ensure NCEFT Services continue to foster healing and hope for people facing diverse challenges.
Photo credit: Aaron Alvarez Mendoza Photography
Client Testimonials
I can’t say enough good things about this organization, its volunteers, staff and equine partners. For the last six years they have supported my son physically and emotionally, building his skills with steady assurance and good humor, supporting him through his ups and downs, and always alert to finding a constructive path. This kind of dedication and purpose is exceptional, heartwarming and hopeful. Apart from the wonder of being on, beside and around the horses, it’s good to be among such great role models. I wish them all success.” - Parent of Physical Therapy Client
I am convinced that my son Bradley has achieved so much more in his recovery as a result of working with the horses and staff at NCEFT. Bradley has traumatic brain injury as the result of an accident. When he initially started at NCEFT many in the medical community did not believe that he would ever walk, although they were optimistic. Through the tireless work of the occupational therapists and with the undying love of the horses Bradley now not only walks but can ride a bike and is able to participate in races at his school. Our entire family appreciates the work that continues to be accomplished by our friends at NCEFT. Our lives would be much less rich without them!” - Parent of Occupational Therapy Client
Live Auction Items
Thank you for supporting NCEFT by participating in our live auction! All proceeds directly benefit NCEFT’s programs.
Bidding at a live auction is exciting and competitive! When bidding has ceased, the auctioneer will drop the gavel, and the item is sold for that final price to the last bidder who raised their number. The winning bidder number is recorded and hammer price added to the bidder’s account.
Helpful Information
• This program contains a listing of the live and silent auction items at the time of publication. Additions and changes may be made.
• Use your bidder number for any purchases or bids made throughout the evening. An invoice will be emailed to you after the event.
• Payment is accepted in the form of cash (exact change), check or credit card.
• All sales are final when the gavel drops. No returns or exchanges. Items will be delivered to winners upon full payment of the bidder’s account. No exceptions.
• Tax Advisory: Donations made to NCEFT are tax-deductible. The deductible portion of purchased items is the difference between the price paid and the fair market value. When payment is received in full, you will receive an official tax donation letter indicating your tax dedicible value. Please see your tax advisor for more information.
• For any questions or to confirm details of a purchased live auction item, please email gala@nceft.org
¡Feliz Día de Acción de Gracias!
November 16 - 24, 2024 - Thanksgiving week 2024
7 night, 8 day stay for a group up to 6 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Indulge in luxury at the 5-star Hacienda del Mar Resort, where you’ll reside in a private 1-bed/2-bath condo suite featuring a full kitchen, jacuzzi tub, and private terrace. The resort boasts a wealth of amenities, granting you access to a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, 3 restaurants, infinity swimming pools adorned with waterfalls, serene private beaches, a European-style spa, fitness center, as well as a beauty salon and boutique.
Purchaser must confirm to NCEFT Development Office by October 16, 2023 to reserve Thanksgiving week, November 16-23, 2024. An alternate week may be reserved subject to availability. Trip must be taken by end of 2024, and excludes Christmas holidays. Accommodations only; airfare, meals and travel expenses not included. Generously donated by Alexa Knight.
Savor Authentic Santa Maria BBQ at Runnymede Farm: A Culinary Escape
Group up to 18 Venue located in Woodside, CA
Indulge in a culinary delight at Runnymede Farm, a private, family-owned estate in Woodside. Treat yourself and up to 17 guests to an unforgettable authentic Santa Maria Style BBQ experience, replete with the tantalizing aroma of red oak wood.
Customize your feast by selecting from these mouthwatering options: succulent New York strip, tender filet strip, or flavorful rib eye roast. Complementing these exquisite meats are delectable sides, including freshly baked French bread, hearty Pinquito beans, zesty salsa, a refreshing salad, and a decadent dessert.
With this package, you will not only support a worthy cause, but will savor a genuine Santa Maria BBQ that promises to leave your taste buds and hearts thoroughly satisfied.
Generously donated by Runnymede Farm, John Glines, and Susan Martin.
Garth Brooks/Plus ONE: Unforgettable Las Vegas Experience for Two
2 Tickets to Garth Brook’s/Plus One tour
2 Night Stay for 2 at Ceasar’s Palace in Las Vegas, NV
$300 AmEx Dining Card
December 8, 2023 - December 10, 2023 - Alternate dates available
An unforgettable experience for two, blending the enchantment of Garth Brooks’ live performance with a luxurious two-night stay in a Caesars Palace Octavius Premium Room. You’ll have prime viewing at the concert with two 200 Level Tickets.
The allure extends beyond the concert with a $300 AmEx Dining Gift Card, you can revel in the Las Vegas culinary scene. This package blending music, luxury and fine dining promises an unforgettable Las Vegas getaway!
Hotel is Based on Double Occupancy. Valid for the Saturday, December 9, 2023 Garth Brooks Concert Stated Above. Ticket upgrades and future alternate dates available upon request. Tickets to be Transferred or Delivered Within the Week of the Event.
Molte Bene! Tastes of Italy
7 Course Tasting Menu with Wine Pairing Group up to 6
Immerse yourself in an Italian culinary odyssey at Redwood City’s Donato Enoteca Restaurant. Delight in a symphony of tastes as you traverse the rich flavors of Italy. Let the expertise of Donato Enoteca’s sommelier’s guide you through thoughtfully curated wine pairings, perfectly complementing the journey of flavors that await.
At the heart of this experience lies Chef Donato Scotti’s creative genius. His unique tasting menu pays homage to the Lombardia region’s culinary heritage and infuses a captivating modern twist, resulting in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
Donato Enoteca tasting evening to be arranged through NCEFT’s Development Office and held on a mutually agreeable date at Donato Enoteca in Redwood City before September 16, 2024 (holidays excluded). Gratuities not included. Generously donated by Chef Donato Scotti, Donato Enoteca Restaurant.
The Ranches at Belt Creek: Mountain Adventure for Two
3 night, 4 day stay for a group of 2 Belt, Montana
All Hat, No Cattle. Unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl with a 3-night getaway for 2 at The Ranches at Belt Creek, a Montana paradise combining the nostalgia of a working ranch with the luxuries of a five-star resort.
Like roughing it in the great outdoors? Then you’re in the right place. The package includes one activity per day for each guest ranging from your choice of snowmobiling, ATV excursions, ranger tours, guided hikes, horseback riding, and much more. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more chill, check out an outdoor painting class or book the resident masseuse for an incabin massage.
No matter your daytime adventure, you’ll bunk at night in a two-bedroom, 1,300 square-foot log cabin with all the creature comforts: Fireplace, deck with ranch views, wi-fi, hot tub, gourmet kitchen bar, washer and dryer, flatscreen TV, fitness center access — the works. And, when it’s mealtime, the chuckwagon comes to you with breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 2, courtesy of your own private chef. Yeehaw!!
Option to add up to two additional guests may be available at winning bidder’s expense. Subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. Cabin based on double occupancy. Must be booked within 18 months and traveled within 24 months of certificate issue date. Reservations based on availability. *Select Activities are seasonal and are subject to weather conditions. Alcoholic beverages and transportation are not included.
“Summer Longing”
2023 Painting by Peter Van Vlasselaer
When unusual weather patterns and relentless atmospheric rivers keep sunny days in the distant future, one might focus on the dark spiral that the clouds may pull you into.
Little by little, but with powerful conviction, the brilliance of Spring shines through to reaffirm hope and promise revitalizing days ahead.
Hope is an essential part of our well-being and taps into the positive belief that even when things are dark or out of our control, they can get better.
Peter Van Vlasselaer Instagram Account: #phdolittle
About the artist: Peter Van Vlasselaer is a biologist in his professional life, and a woodworker, painter, and sculptor in his leisure time. His bronze sculpture “Braban” was auctioned at the 2018 NCEFT Gala, and he created and donated the piece “Joyful NCEFT” in honor of the organization’s 50th anniversary in 2021.
Last year, we were thrilled to auction two pieces of Peter’s art collectively called “California Rising” with proceeds directly benefiting NCEFT’s Veterans and First Responders programs.
This year, proceeds from “Summer Longing” will go towards the Mental Health & Resiliency Program at NCEFT.
DETAILS: Painting available upon settlement of auction item. In-person pick up only; shipping not available. Generously donated by Peter Van Vlasselaer.
Inkind & Auction Item Donors
Aaron Alvarez Mendoza Photography
Allison Menke Photography
American Conservatory Theater
Diana Andreatta
Antonio Cremona Salon
Ashley Ashoff
Paul and Donna Barulich *
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
BRONCA Apparel
Wayne Browning, DVM & Tom Frank *
California Academy of Sciences
Captain Kirk’s San Francisco Sailing
Audrey & Paul Carroll
Kris & Dave Carroll
Chantale’s Cuisine
Chocolates for Charity
Debra McClure Photography
Donato Enoteca
Erin Mac Jewelry
Peter & Victoria Evans
Firehouse Bistro & Pioneer Saloon
John Glines
Grand National Rodeo/Cow Palace
Garrod Farms Estate Winery & Stables
GreenWaste
Emily Hambel
J.Lohr Vineyards & Winery
JZ Photography
Krista Kahl Photography
Alexa Knight
Koji Glass Art
Ladera Garden & Gifts
Lingerie République
Nicola & Derek Liu *
Susan Martin *
Oakland A’s
Oakland Zoo
Park James Hotel
Prairie Boutique
Adda Quinn
Marty Raynor
Runnymede Farm
Rutherford Designs
Angela Salcido
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco Giants
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
San Jose Sharks
Schumacher Photography
Shimmer & Glaze
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
SkinSpirit Palo Alto
South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
Casey Terribilini *
Anne Van Camp & Peter Van Vlasselaer *
Peter Van Vlasselaer
Viscusi Elson Interior Design
Webb Ranch
W.L. Butler Construction Inc.
W.L. Butler Family Cellars
White Sage
Winchester Mystery House
Wise Blends
Service Providers
Amaze Studios
Bayside Printed Products
Central Coast Auction Service
Golden State Portables
Melons Catering & Events
Saier Services
Turf and Industrial Equipment Company
* Denotes NCEFT Board of Directors or Advisory Council Member List updated as of 9/1
