Showcase

Horse show wins blue ribbon for fundraising

For many clubs and organizations around the world, fundraising is a necessary means to an end. The same goes for Kiwanis. Pounding the pavement and holding events generate the revenues to sustain Kiwanis’ most important cause: service.

A champion accepts a prized wreath at the Swartz Creek Kiwanis Crystal Horse Show.

Crystal vision Winners in each class at the Swartz Creek Kiwanis Crystal Horse Show not only get a blue ribbon, but also a piece of—what else—lead crystal. “Each piece is especially selected and is one of a kind,” says show manager Dave Bedell. “Horse trainers have told us that, when they sit down with their exhibitors in the spring to decide which horse shows they’ll attend, the first thing they hear is ‘Kiwanis Crystal.’”

But fundraising also can be fun. Just ask members of the Swartz Creek Kiwanis club in Michigan.

The Swartz Creek Kiwanis Crystal Horse Show, the group’s major fundraiser, is no dog and pony show. This is the real deal. The club nets about US$9,000 from the event, which has a longstanding place of pride within the community.

Riders compete in 108 classes of riding and driving during the two-day event, which includes competition for various age groups and experience levels. Classes also differentiate by breed of horse and riding style—including western, hunt, and saddle seats. Some competitions focus specifically on the performance of the horse, not the rider.

The show has been the club’s major fundraiser, providing the resources for it to co-sponsor an after-school program—Club SCCAT—which provides a safe, supervised place for high school and middle school students. “The students get assistance with homework, play games, play basketball and volleyball, and just hang out with friends in a positive environment,” says president Ray Thornton.

With the funds, the club sponsors services and programs for young people, including a Key Club, Builders Club, Scout troops, two Head Start groups, and a Christmas party for special-needs children.

But the show offers much more than revenue for the club. As they open gates and award ribbons, Kiwanians, their family members, and other volunteers build strong relationships and community spirit.

“Because of the nature of the event, many members take their trailers and motor homes to the fairgrounds,” Ray says. “We work hard, but there’s plenty of time to socialize in a way that’s not possible during other fundraising activities. The camping, late-night bonfires, and potluck lunches and dinners provide a level of relationship building and fun that makes the event a joy to attend.”