Detroit Horse Power’s annual gala

Detroit Horse Power’s 10th anniversary celebration is set for 6 p.m. on Friday, May 9, at Eastern Market’s Shed 3, with funds raised supporting the nonprofit organization’s programs for Detroit youth. With a theme of “country western chic,” the event will bring the experience of its summer camps, featuring horses, of course, as well as live music, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner, a raffle and auction and a special awards presentation.

Detroit Horse Power is building the country’s largest urban equestrian center on a 14-acre site at Fenkell and Linwood on Detroit’s northwest side. The nonprofit organization uses the power of horses to positively impact Detroit youth 11-18 years of age with developing critical social-emotional skills. Founded in 2015, Detroit Horse Power has served nearly 1,000 kids through after-school programs and summer camps at partner equestrian facilities across the region, teaching students how to ride and care for horses and develop life skills, including Perseverance, Empathy, Responsible risk-taking, Confidence and Self-control (PERCS).

When complete, the $11.4 million new space in Detroit will include stables accommodating up to 17 horses, an indoor riding arena, outdoor riding spaces, paddocks for the horses to graze, as well as classrooms and community space. Funds raised during the gala will support the Stable Future Fund, which will provide expanded youth programming once the new facility opens.

Tickets to the gala start at $175 and can be purchased at detroithorsepower.org/events.