According to Equest Women’s Auxiliary 2021 President Katie Layton and Luncheon Chairman Beth Layton,
“When Equest Women’s Auxiliary founder Louise Griffeth started the organization more than thirty years ago, Equest was known as Freedom Ride and many people were unfamiliar with the cause and how to become supporters. Her vision was to create a vital support team to help Equest raised funds and create awareness for the unique organization. Louise’s vision has come to fruition!
“The program has grown dramatically over the years. Equest has received national recognition for its work and the Women’s Auxiliary is a very effective organization comprised of hundreds of dedicated women who volunteer selflessly to raise funds for the therapeutic horsemanship programs. Equest has improved the lives of children and adults using horses to bring hope and healing through equine assisted therapies for forty years.
“In early 2022, the incoming Luncheon Chairman Shannon Graham and incoming Auxiliary President Billye Turner will reveal details of the annual Equest Women’s Auxiliary Fashion Show and Luncheon in October which will raise much-needed funds for Equest’s unique therapy programs. We are so fortunate to be followed by such capable and respected leaders as these two women!
“The success of the 2021 luncheon, presented by Highland Park Village, would not have been possible without the generous support of long-time Equest Auxiliary donors Louise Griffeth, luncheon honorees Nancy Carter and Robyn Conlon, who were joined by Lisa and Clay Cooley, Lisa and Kenny Troutt, the Billie and Gillis Thomas Foundation, Copperstone Farm-Helen K. and Robert G. McGraw, Lyda Hill, Sewell Automotive Companies, Diane Brierley, Vicki Chapman and Lauren Bellemare, A. L. Chilton Foundation, Carol Huckin and Mark Layton.
“Thanks to their support and donations from hundreds of others, Equest has become the leader in equine assisted therapy and serves hundreds of riders annually including riders with cerebral palsy and autism as well as orthopedic ailments. Additionally, Equest serves veterans through the Horses for Heroes program.
“Our wish is that you visit www.equest.org to learn how you can become of a part of this amazing program and support Shannon, Billye and their committee members working on the 2022 luncheon. But, remember that you don’t have to wait for the Fashion Show to become join forces with this life-changing organization. Please visit www.equest.org for more information.”
