First-time event raises money for Hope Haven
Hope Haven Horse Farm relied on a different kind of horsepower for a recent fundraiser effort. Cars took to the Putnam Park Road Course to give spectators a chance to ride in a racecar and to raise money for Hope Haven.
Horsepower4Hope is a brand new fund-raising group composed of family and friends.
"We strictly raise money for non-profit facilities who rely heavily on private donations to stay in operation," said Sharon Anderson, one of the founding members. "We chose Hope Haven as our recipient because we firmly believe in its valuable and positive presence in Putnam County."
Hope Haven Horse Farm is a recognized non-profit dedicated to promoting growth, learning, hope and opportunities for at-risk and special needs residents in Hendricks and Putnam counties and surrounding communities using innovative and responsive equine therapy.
Together with Bill Neal, owner of 10/10ths Motorsports, Horsepower4Hope hosted a charity road course and car show event on July 30, raising more than $7,000 for their recipient.
"I am so overwhelmed by what these guys have done for us," said Christina Menke, founder of Hope Haven. "They are amazing drivers, an amazing group of people, amazing volunteers."
Minke said this money would help her to start a foundation fund so that no one would ever be denied participation due to financial hardship in this economy.
Through the generosity of Putnam Park and the many drivers who attended, ride-alongs were available for a small donation fee so that spectators could have the ride of a lifetime in a real racecar.
Wanting to make this an annual event, Horsepower4Hope and 10/10ths Motorsports hope that more people will consider entering the car show next year, the judging performed by Hope Haven clients, or at least come out and join in on the fun. They also hope that this event will help raise awareness of what an awesome place Hope Haven is and that Putnam County as well as surrounding counties will continue to support Hope Haven and its wonderful cause long into the future, Anderson said.
For more information on Hope Haven visit www.hopehavenhorsefarm.com.