May 31, 2018 | Parties
Shepherd Center’s Derby Day was held for the 36th year on May 5th, 2018 at Chastain Horse Park. From attendees to sponsors and volunteers, over 1,000 people attended Derby Day this year. Men came dressed to impress in seer-sucker suits and women donned spring attire and fancy hats. Party-goers listened to live music by the Mustangs, played lawn games – including corn hole and a wine toss – and posed for pictures at the Derby-themed photo booth. The silent and live auctions offered getaway trips and one of a kind artwork for patrons to bid on.
Funds raised at the event directly support Shepherd Center’s Recreation Therapy program, the largest and most comprehensive program of its kind in the country. Recreation therapy activities help patients resume leisure activities or discover new ones. Research has proven that involvement in recreational activities has a positive impact on individuals with disabilities by increasing physical fitness, as well as cognitive and social functioning. Introducing accessible sports, hobbies and demonstrating new ways to enjoy their favorite activities helps restore hope to a rewarding and meaningful life to our patients
Thanks to the outstanding planning and fundraising efforts of the 2017–2018 Shepherd Center Junior Committee, this year’s event raised over $300,000.
Photography by William Twitty Photography, Hannah Graham Photography & Elliot Brockelbank
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