🌟 “The First Hoedown: A Hoofbeat of Hope”

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In spring 2024, as the Mounted Horse Foundation sought fresh ways to fundraise for its beloved patrol horses, three passionate advocates stepped forward: Dawn Lee, Michelle Gemmill, and Danyelle Brown. United by their love for horses and community, they envisioned a festive autumn event—a hoedown—to bring people together, raise awareness, and support equine welfare.

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• Dawn Lee, a longtime supporter of mounted units (notably the Boulder City Mounted Patrol), already had a solid connection to the program and knew how powerful community spirit could be.

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• Michelle Gemmill brought organizational finesse, using her event-planning background to set the stage—literally and figuratively—arranging live country music, barn-style décor, and sly nods to mounted patrol culture.

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• Danyelle Brown, with her contagious enthusiasm, mobilized sponsors, volunteers, and local vendors to donate hors d’oeuvres, raffle items, and horseback demos that would captivate guests—and cameras.

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By summer, their idea had taken root. The event was christened “Hoofbeats & Hope Hoedown,” scheduled for a crisp September evening at our local Elks Lodge.