It was all smiles for a group gathered during the 18th Annual Denim & Diamonds Dinner Dance for O.A.T.S., Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles, on July 26.
The equine assisted therapy program held the extravaganza at The Birdfeeder, Bonnie & Clyde Boutique and Clarkston Flower Shop. O.A.T.S offers horseback and related activities to help those with physical and mental handicaps.
O.A.T.S Executive Director Barb Pellerito said fundraisers like Diamonds and Denim are important to the program.
“It helps us keep our program running and keeps costs down,” Pellerito said.
O.A.T.S was founded in 1997, and offers year-round sessions at its Clarkston location. Riders are encouraged to develop friendships with horses and others campers, while they work towards one day riding independently without side-walker and leader assistance. In addition, the program offers services to wounded veterans, school and other groups. For more information about O.A.T.S visit www.oatshrh.org.
-Andrea Beaudoin