Grassy Creek United Methodist Church is in the process of organizing the 15th annual Giving a Leg Up to Therapeutic Riding fundraiser that will be held Friday, Sept. 18, through Sunday, Sept. 20.

Friday’s events include primitive camping only. Saturday’s events include an all-day trail ride beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by a cowboy supper of pinto beans and cornbread. Sunday’s events include worship services at 11 a.m. and a barbecue lunch, a silent auction and an afternoon trail ride. Coggins Test papers must be readily available from horse owners participating.

Representatives from the therapeutic riding centers and sometimes individuals who have benefited from the programs will speak during the worship service. Their testimonies are always moving, according to a spokesperson for the church.

Wagons will be provided on Sunday for those who do not have horses and want to participate in the afternoon trail ride. The silent auction will be an all-day event on Sunday, closing at 5 p.m.

Proceeds from all of these events are given to therapeutic riding centers.

This year, the church is supporting Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center, www.atrcriding.com, located in Burnsville, and Alleghany Trail Blazers Inc. (www.alleghanytrailblazers.org), located in Glade Valley.

All of the centers are part of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), www.narha.org.

For the past 14 years, the church has raised money for therapeutic riding centers.

Horse facilitated therapy and activities can benefit individuals with the following disabilities: muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, Down syndrome, mental retardation, autism, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, emotional disabilities, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, deafness and cardiovascular accident or stroke, the spokesperson said.

Because horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength, the spokesperson said. For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem.

“With your help, we can ensure that these centers are able to continue the valuable services they provide, as well as give hope and encouragement to individuals who have to endure the everyday challenges of physical and mental disabilities,” the spokesperson said.

Donations of money, volunteers and merchandise are accepted. All donations of products, tickets, gift certificates, etc., will be auctioned off in the silent auction. The bid sheets will include the name of the contributor.

For those who would like to make a donation, mail it to the church at 479 Grassy Creek Road, Grassy Creek, N.C. 28631, or e-mail or call one of the following church members: Dennis or Cheryl Little at (276) 579-3350, cdlittle@wildblue.net, Julia Houck at (336) 982-3893 or Martha Kincaid at (336) 877-5050.