Welcome Spring at the Social Event of the Season!
You are in for a very special evening!
As you approach the entrance of stately Columbus Academy, you will be greeted by Dreams on Horseback's horse partners adorned in their very own gala finery. Once inside, you can immediately enjoy a drink and gourmet appetizers while listening to the sounds of our live jazz band. If you choose, you can take part in a bourbon tasting and peruse silent auction items while you prepare for a meaningful and memorable night of camaraderie and charity.
Dinner will feature an abundant buffet and impactful storytelling thanks to John Ondo's Ondo Media. Most importantly, guests will be given the opportunity to support the participants of Dreams on Horseback through a lively auction and "Fund the Need" Fundraiser.
Blue, Red and Yellow Ribbon Sponsors have a special opportunity to enjoy a VIP Pre-Party which provides a leisurely experience with your guests with an open bar from 5 - 6 pm.
Welcome to the Podium: Jerod Smalley!
This year's Walk, Trot, and Decanter Gala emcee is Columbus' own Jerod Smalley. Jerod serves as co-anchor of First at 4 and NBC4 at 5. He first joined NBC4 on the sports team in 2004 and was Sports Director from 2006 to 2023.
In his career, he's covered events around the world, including the 2016 Rio Olympics, Super Bowls, NBA Finals, World Series and multiple Ohio State national championship appearances.
Jerod has been named Ohio's Best Anchor (news, weather or sports) six times by the Associated Press. He and the NBC4 sports team have won numerous awards for their coverage of local sports. Jerod previously worked at WSAZ-TV in Huntington, West Virginia, and KSNT-TV in Topeka, Kansas.
Jerod's a proud dad of sons Brady and Tyler, who are both diagnosed with autism. Jerod launched a campaign at the station to promote autism acceptance and to raise money for research and educational programs.
He anchors NBC4's "The Autism Puzzle," which features compelling local stories about people living with autism. He and the station have earned four regional Emmy Awards for "The Autism Puzzle." Jerod serves on the committee for Walk Now For Autism Speaks in Columbus and is a board member of OCALI and the OHSAA.
Follow Jerod on Twitter @JerodNBC4 or email him at [email protected].
Sponsors - Treat Your Guests to the VIP PARTY!
Blue, Red and Yellow Ribbon Sponsorships can make the evening even more special for you and your guests!
Sponsor or Buy Tickets
Silent Auction
Auction Now Open
Are You A Bourbon Lover?
Don't Miss Out On the Bourbon Tasting This Year!
Order the Experience on the Same Page Where You Buy Your Sponsorship or Event Ticket!
Thank You to Our 2024 Sponsors
Meet Mackenzie Schutt, 2023 Miss Ohio USA
Miss Schutt will be joining us at this year's gala. A lifelong equestrian, Mackenzie is honored to be a part of this year's festivities where she we will greet guests and be available for photo opportunities. Mackenzie is not only supporting Dreams on Horseback through her presence with us at the gala, but hopes to volunteer in our therapeutic riding program very soon!
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