by Mark Smith, Contributing Writer
The Second Annual Sunset Serenade & Summer BBQ Fundraiser on June 21 will again benefit Ranch Hand Rescue Counseling Center, where it’s: “people helping animals and animals helping people.”
The Argyle charitable organization rescues and cares for abused and neglected animals, as well as provides mental health care for people. It’s the first such organization in the world.
Ranch Hand Rescue was founded in 2008 by Bob Williams, who started the Equine and Animal Assisted Counseling program in 2010 for the five-percent of people who don’t respond well in traditional office counseling sessions.
“My question (to mental health organizations) was always: ‘What happens to the people you can’t help? Where do they go?’” Williams said, adding that high-risk clients will spend time with other organizations: “and if they’re not getting any better, they are sent to us for a better way to treat trauma.”
Last year, approximately 200 people attended the inaugural Sunset Serenade & Summer BBQ Fundraiser, which raised about $15,000. This year, organizers “set more aggressive goals” and are hoping for about 300 attendees and to raise about $25,000.
The 2016 fundraiser had a big impact on Ranch Hand Rescue, which has about 40-animals and sees about 100-clients a week.
“Anytime we can raise more money for general operations, it opens up money to serve more clients,” Williams said.
Ranch Hand Rescue’s original location is at 8827 U.S. 377 in south Argyle, with a second location soon to open just up the road at 9477 U.S. 377 N. in south Denton.
“The event will be a fun time for all,” said Williams. “You’ll have a good time celebrating an organization and community that helps so many people. There’s dancing, adult beverages and incredible barbecue.”
Glen and Annette Doody of Savory Bistro are also trying to raise an additional $5,000, as stated in a message on the Ranch Hand Rescue website.
“Talk about salt of the earth people,” Williams said of the Doodys. “Their food’s amazing and it’s a big honor that they would do this for us.”
The event will be Wednesday, June 21, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Savory Bistro, 2650 FM 407 in Bartonville Town Center.
It’s $50 per ticket and $400 for a VIP table. The ticket includes entrance to the silent auction, a free raffle ticket for door prizes, a barbecue dinner and entertainment by The Poor Kings, a Texas pop/folk band. To purchase tickets, visit Savory Bistro, or www.ranchhandrescue.org.
