Since opening in 2012, Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center has grown into a leading provider of equine-assisted therapy in South Florida.

What if an afternoon of shopping, sipping wine and spending time with friends also could help a child gain confidence, improve mobility or experience the joy of greater independence?

That is the magic behind The Mane Event, Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center’s signature Sip-and-Shop Extravaganza, celebrating its 10th anniversary on Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Set amid the beautiful five-acre Whispering Manes equestrian center at 6105 SW 125 Ave. in West Kendall, this much-anticipated fall gathering invites guests to shop, sip, socialize — and see firsthand how horses are changing lives in our community.

Sponsored by Baptist Health, the milestone 10th anniversary celebration is expected to welcome more than 200 guests for an afternoon featuring more than 20 local vendors, wine and delicious bites, live music, a fashion show, a fabulous silent auction and plenty of opportunities to get a head start on holiday shopping.

But the real stars of The Mane Event are waiting in the barn. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the gentle and specially trained horses at the heart of Whispering Manes and watch therapeutic riding demonstrations that bring the organization’s mission to life.

Every ride can represent a milestone. For a child or adult with a disability or special need, working with a horse can help strengthen muscles and coordination, encourage communication, build confidence and foster independence. The relationship between horse and rider can also create something equally important but harder to measure: trust, connection, pride and pure joy.

That is why every ticket purchased, every auction bid made and every dollar raised at The Mane Event matters. Proceeds directly support Whispering Manes’ therapeutic riding and equine-assisted programs, helping the nonprofit continue providing transformative experiences for children and adults with disabilities and special needs throughout South Florida.

“For 10 years, The Mane Event has brought together friends, families and supporters for a wonderful afternoon, but what makes it truly special is the reason we are all here,” said Helen Picard, executive director of Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center.

“When guests meet our horses, watch one of our riders and see the confidence and joy that can grow from that relationship, they understand immediately why this work matters. Every ticket helps us continue creating those moments,” Picard added.

Over the past decade, The Mane Event has grown into one of Whispering Manes’ most anticipated annual celebrations — a relaxed and festive afternoon where philanthropy feels every bit as good as it looks.

This year’s anniversary event promises to be especially memorable, with a carefully curated marketplace featuring fashion, accessories, gifts, home décor, sweet treats and specialty finds. Confirmed vendors include Neptune’s Boutique, Boards by Shore, Miami Learning Experience, Gypsey Ofelia, Bella Paz, Jacqui’s Pearls, Cocoa Couture and Soy Delicious, with additional vendors to be announced. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment, food and wine while discovering irresistible silent-auction treasures.

With limited attendance at the intimate equestrian setting, supporters are encouraged to purchase tickets early.

Come for the shopping. Stay for the horses. Leave knowing you helped change a life.

About Whispering Manes
Therapeutic Riding Center
Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities through equine-assisted activities. By fostering meaningful connections between riders and specially trained horses, the organization promotes physical strength, emotional well-being, and increased self-confidence.

Founded in 2010 by philanthropist Nancy Hector, Whispering Manes was created to address the need for accessible therapeutic riding programs in Miami-Dade County, where nearly 600,000 individuals live with some form of disability.

Since opening in 2012, the organization has grown into a leading provider of equine-assisted therapy in South Florida, serving up to 80 riders per week and more than 150 participants annually, including individuals from local schools, veterans, and members of the special needs community.

In 2015, Hector furthered her commitment by donating a custom-designed, ADA-compliant barn and covered riding arena, creating a permanent home for the program. Today, Whispering Manes is recognized as a PATH International Premier Accredited Center, reflecting the highest standards in safety, instruction, and program delivery.

Supported by a network of more than 100 dedicated volunteers, Whispering Manes continues to strengthen community ties while delivering transformative experiences that build independence, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment through the unique bond between horse and rider.

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