Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding (CATR) invites the community to its fifth annual Derby Party on Saturday, May 2, from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at The Waverly.
Guests are encouraged to wear festive attire, with hats and bow ties, for an event featuring derby-themed activities. The party will include an open bar with specialty cocktails, Southern fare, contests, horse betting raffles, auctions and a viewing of the race. Tickets are $200 and are limited.
Proceeds from the event will support CATR’s student scholarship program. Each participant in CATR programs receives scholarship assistance. As the only Professional Association of Therapeutic Riding International (PATH)-accredited equine-assisted services center in the Charleston area, CATR provides services designed to help children and adults thrive.
Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding has served the community for 35 years, offering therapeutic experiences through partnerships with horses. Its programming supports individuals with physical, cognitive, social and emotional challenges. The organization includes seven PATH-certified instructors, three instructors in training, 16 horses, 56 weekly participants and more than 100 volunteers. Programs include public school groups, therapeutic riding lessons, ground lessons and support group sessions. The year 2026 marks CATR’s 35th anniversary.
“Every student is unique, and to see their progress and how they overcome their hesitation and fears is wonderful,” said Tricia Hasenfuss, the 2023-2024 Volunteer of the Year. “Recently, CATR partnered with an organization, Bridges of Hope, which works with young people who have suffered a loss. I really enjoyed volunteering in this program and hope CATR continues with it.”
CATR has expanded its programming to include additional support group sessions and to reach more individuals in need of its services. Future initiatives include enhancing facilities and increasing community outreach.
For more information, visit https://catr.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/DerbyParty2026/tabid/1576432/Default.aspx.