Reining Strength’s Derby Day Party Raises More Than $385,000 to Expand Equine Therapy Services in Fort Bend County
A long-standing Fort Bend County tradition once again turned celebration into community impact as Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship raised more than $385,000 during its 12th annual Derby Day Party in Sugar Land.
Held Saturday, May 2, 2026, the event welcomed more than 450 supporters to the Houston Marriott Sugar Land, where residents, community leaders, nonprofits, and local businesses gathered to support equine-assisted services that continue to change lives across Richmond, Sugar Land, Fulshear, Katy, and the surrounding Greater Houston area.
With Houston Methodist serving as the event’s Run for the Roses Sponsor, this year’s Derby Day Party marked the organization’s most successful fundraiser to date — reinforcing growing regional support for programs that help individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs build confidence, independence, and connection through therapeutic horsemanship.
For many families in Fort Bend County, the evening represented more than a social gathering. The funds raised directly support customized equine-assisted activities and therapies that provide year-round services for children and adults facing a wide range of challenges.
A Community Celebration Rooted in Purpose
Guests arrived dressed in a classic Derby-inspired mix of boots, bowties, and elaborate hats, bringing Southern tradition and local pride together for one of Sugar Land’s signature nonprofit events.
The annual gentlemen’s boots and bowties contest and ladies’ hat competition once again became a highlight of the afternoon, judged by a panel of community leaders that included Precinct One Constable Chad Norvell, Fulshear Mayor Don McCoy, Judge Christopher Morales, Melissa Toon of the Fort Bend Chamber, Ammie Blahuta of the George Foundation, Amanda Chow with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Special Children’s Committee, and Suzanne Haboush with GFL.
Supporters also participated in silent and live auctions, raffles, games, photo booth experiences, a seated dinner, and a live-stream viewing of the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby.
Even with the Derby traditions, raffles, and race-day excitement, the evening consistently returned to the reason people were there in the first place — supporting individuals and families who benefit from Reining Strength’s programs.
A Family Story That Resonated Across the Ballroom
One of the most impactful moments of the fundraiser came through a special video featuring The Laviola Family, whose story highlighted the emotional and physical impact equine-assisted services can have on individuals and families navigating adversity.
“The Laviola Family’s story of hope, positivity through adversity and the impact of horses on someone’s everyday life is something that speaks to all,” said Heather Hernandez Sedillo, Executive Director of Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship. “We are thankful to have them be a champion for Reining Strength and are grateful that their story and Reining Strength’s mission resonated with our Derby Day supporters.”
The presentation served as a reminder of why therapeutic horsemanship programs continue to gain support throughout Fort Bend County and the Greater Houston region.
Why Equine-Assisted Services Matter in Fort Bend County
As Fort Bend County continues to grow, local organizations like Reining Strength are helping address increasing demand for innovative wellness and therapy programs that support both children and adults.
Founded in 2014, Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship partners with horses to help individuals realize their potential through customized equine-assisted activities and therapies. The organization serves individuals with a range of physical, emotional, cognitive, and social challenges, offering programs designed to improve strength, communication, confidence, coordination, and life skills.
The organization is a Premier Accredited Center through PATH International, formally known as the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, a distinction that reflects adherence to rigorous national standards for safety and instruction.
For many participants, the benefits extend well beyond the riding arena. Therapeutic horsemanship often helps foster emotional regulation, social interaction, trust-building, and independence — outcomes families across the region increasingly seek through alternative and complementary therapy programs.
What Happens Next for Reining Strength
The success of the 2026 Derby Day Party positions Reining Strength to continue expanding its reach and services throughout Fort Bend County and neighboring communities.
As awareness around equine-assisted therapy continues to grow in Texas, local support remains essential in helping organizations like Reining Strength maintain accessibility for families and individuals who rely on these programs.
This year’s turnout also reflected a broader community trend: residents and businesses across Sugar Land, Richmond, Fulshear, and Katy continue investing in nonprofits that directly improve quality of life and strengthen local support systems.
For many attendees, Derby Day was not simply about tradition or entertainment — it was an opportunity to invest in neighbors, families, and individuals working to overcome challenges and build confidence through meaningful therapeutic experiences.
For more updates on nonprofit initiatives, community events, and local impact stories across Fort Bend County, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.