2026 Cowboy Prom Gala: A Record-Breaking Night of Impact

Over 200 guests joined us for the 2026 Making Strides Foundation Cowboy Prom Gala at Live! Casino Pittsburgh — and what an unforgettable evening it was. Each year this event continues to grow, and this year we were thrilled to welcome both familiar faces and many new supporters to our community.

Guests spent the evening enjoying live entertainment by Laurie Palmer & DJ Joe, visiting local vendors including Creations by Maddy and Honey Co., capturing memories at the photo booth by Oh Snap Pittsburgh and taking part in raffles and silent auction bidding throughout the night — all while coming together in support of a meaningful mission.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, attendees, and donors, we raised more than ever before in the history of this event. The energy in the room reflected what we already know — our mission resonates, and our community believes in the power of this work.

During the evening, our Founder & CEO shared the heart behind Making Strides and the impact seen every day at the barn:

Every week at Making Strides, children and adults with disabilities arrive at our barn carrying very different challenges — physical, cognitive, and emotional. Some are working to strengthen muscles. Some are learning to form words. Some are building balance, coordination, or confidence for the very first time.

Therapies for these individuals are common. However, when they walk through the doors at Making Strides, it’s different.

On horseback, a child working on speech therapy isn’t just repeating sounds — they’re calling out directions with purpose. A rider in occupational therapy isn’t just improving core strength — they’re learning independence. A student in a riding lesson isn’t just learning horsemanship — they’re discovering capability.

These moments represent the true power of equine-assisted services — where skills gained in the arena extend far beyond the barn into classrooms, friendships, family life, and everyday independence.

We were also proud to recognize two individuals for their extraordinary contributions to our organization. Hayley Leasure received our Outstanding Service Award for her dedication as a volunteer since 2023 and for generously donating Dusty to our program. We also honored our Marketing Specialist, Amanda Webster, for her excellent organizational impact and leadership in helping grow our reach and visibility.

As shared during the program, Making Strides is only four years old — yet so much has already been built: A place where ability is celebrated. A place where differences are embraced. A place where riders are defined not by diagnosis, but by determination.

And we are just getting started.

With growing demand, plans for a second covered arena, a scholarship fund, and expanded programming on the horizon, the future is bright — because of supporters like you.

Thank you for helping us create more lessons, more therapy sessions, and more strides forward.