14th Sonoma County Equus Awards Fundraiser and Gala

Congratulations to the 14th Sonoma County Horse Council’s
Equus Awards Honorees!

14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Awards Honoree

Jamie Kerr, DVM, exemplifies a steadfast dedication to equine welfare and a lifelong passion for horses that has defined his remarkable 42-year career in equine veterinary practice. His passion for endurance riding mirrors his approach to life: embracing challenges, pushing boundaries, and forging deep connections with both horses and fellow riders. Jamie's legacy as an Equus Award recipient is not just defined by his professional achievements, but by the significant impact he has had on the lives of countless horses and their owners, embodying the spirit of dedication, compassion, and love for horses.

14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Awards Honoree

David Lawson's profound impact on the equestrian community has earned him the esteemed recognition as an Equus Award honoree. From training horses and riders to producing rodeos, youth horse shows, and weekly events at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, David’s devotion to fostering a sense of camaraderie and excellence in horsemanship exemplifies the spirit of the Equus Award, inspiring all who have the privilege of crossing paths with him.

14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Awards Honoree

Margaret Manion's journey to becoming an Equus Award winner is a testament to her dedication to equine health and her innate passion for animals. Her clients' trust in her expertise and the heartwarming stories of their animals' reactions to her treatments serve as a testament to Margaret's exceptional skill and compassionate approach as an equine sports massage therapist. Margaret Manion's impact on the horse community is immeasurable, and it is with great honor that we recognize her as an Equus Award honoree for her outstanding contributions and commitment to equine well-being.

14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Awards Honoree

Tom Parson’s connection to horses and mules spans generations. His dedication to preserving his family's legacy and commitment to the youth agriculture programs in our county is immeasurable. Tom's mule teams, comprised of draft mules Dolly, Nelly, Zoe, and Chloe, serve as ambassadors for his passion, whether pulling the Trailblazer wagon on rides, driving as the Grand Marshal at the Fortuna Rodeo, or riding the roads of Sonoma County. Tom Parsons embodies the spirit of stewardship, tradition, and dedication to the equine world, and we are proud to honor him with the Equus Award.

 

14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Awards Honoree

Charlotte The Wonder Pony epitomizes the essence of equine therapy with her gentle demeanor, unflappable patience, and innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life. For the past eight years, after a successful career as a Pony Club competitor, this 26-year-old Welsh pony has been a cornerstone of the Equi-Ed Therapeutic Riding Program in Santa Rosa. Charlotte stands as a shining example of the transformative power of a pony, earning her well-deserved recognition as an Equus Award honoree.


Celebrate Excellence at the 14th Sonoma County Horse Council
Equus Awards Gala and Fundraiser

May 11, 2024 at 5:00pm

Friedman Event Center
4676 Mayette Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95405

Individual Tickets: $125
Table of Ten: $1,250

Join us on May 11th, 2024, for Sonoma County Horse Council’s prestigious Equus Awards Gala and Fundraiser,
celebrating outstanding contributors to Sonoma County's equine community.
Indulge in an evening of elegance with a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, and awards ceremony.

This biennial fundraiser supports Sonoma County Horse Council’s vital initiatives, including safety programs, youth events, equine disaster relief, and community outreach. With your sponsorship or participation in our live and silent auction, you help us continue promoting and preserving equestrian activities in Sonoma County. Together, let's make Equus the premier event for all horse enthusiasts and ensure a vibrant future for our equestrian community.

At the time of ticket purchase, please include your guests’ names. Or, you may email: schc.epalmer@gmail.com, separately.


Thank You, Sponsors!

Galloping Guardians

Sarah De Sanz & Greg Miller

Noble Contributors

Kim Murphy & DeWayne White

Maryjo Tisor Kaplan

Steed Sustainers


Sponsorship Opportunities

Please consider a donation to the 14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Award Gala and Fundraiser. Learn More.

All sponsors receive the following:

  • VIP early-entrance to the event

  • Listing in the Event Slideshow and Program

  • Logo on Table Signage

  • Acknowledgement and business logo on SCHC Social Media and Website

  • Sponsor message and business logo in Equus Awards Gala promotional emails

  • 15% Discount on any new Ad-Buy in the SCHC Horse Journal

  • Acknowledgement in the Equus Awards section of the SCHC Horse Journal 

Sponsorship Tiers

  • The Pinnacle Patron : The highest tier for those who wish to make a substantial impact on our horse community. The sponsorship cost is $10,000. Sponsors are acknowledged at the event by our emcee, receive ten (10) tickets to the Gala, and an invitation to a private reception for the Equus Award honorees. Your banner will be displayed prominently at our public events throughout 2024 and 2025. This sponsorship underwrites the elegant dinner service at the Gala. 

  • The Galloping Guardian : For those who aspire to shine brightly in support of the Equus Awards. The sponsorship cost is $5,000. Sponsors receive eight (8) tickets to the Gala and an invitation to a private reception for the Equus Award honorees. Sponsorship underwrites the Hitchrack Bar at the Gala.

  • The Noble Contributor : Join us to ensure the success and sustainability of Sonoma County Horse Council’s community activities. The sponsorship cost is $2,500. Sponsors receive four (4) tickets to the Gala. Sponsorship underwrites the Dessert Service at the Gala. 

  • The Steed Sustainer : Every contribution helps to maintain the excellence of the Equus Awards gala and Sonoma County Horse Council events. The sponsorship cost is $1000. This level includes two (2) tickets to the Gala. Sponsorship underwrites the Champagne Welcome at the Gala.

  • The Distinctive Trailblazer – choose something to support : The sponsorship cost is $1000. For those who cannot attend the Gala but wish to support future SCHC initiatives, such as: Disaster Relief Fund, Sonoma County Fair “Horseplay at the Fair” Exhibition, Trailering & Safety Courses, Youth Horse Show Sponsorships, etc...

Please consider a sponsorship or donation to the 14th Sonoma County Horse Council Equus Award Gala and Fundraiser.
All contributions to our fundraising effort will help support the Sonoma County Horse Council’s initiatives.

We look forward to celebrating our outstanding honorees and beloved horse community with you!


Sonoma County is home to over 26,000 horses and more than 30,000 equestrians. Horse-related activities and purchases contribute over $613 million to our local economy each year. The Sonoma County Equus Awards Banquet honors leaders in the horse community and raises funds to support its many programs and partnerships with other equine-related organizations, which include youth events, educational and safety programs, and equine disaster relief and preparedness.