ManeGait Raises Record $1.34 Million To Double Services In McKinney

ManeGait, a McKinney nonprofit that uses horses to help children, adults and veterans with disabilities, raised a record $1.34 million at its 19th annual gala, the 'Gait, on Oct. 17. More than 950 supporters attended, and the money will go toward expanding the equine-assisted services the group offers.

The gala returned to ManeGait's 24-acre McKinney campus for the first time in two years. Guests toured the new Stephens Greth Foundation Stable and the administration and therapy center, both part of the multiyear expansion known as The Beacon Project. The group reached its $13.2 million goal for that build-out only months earlier, and it now says the next step is staffing and programs rather than buildings.

The need is still large. According to ManeGait, more than 500 people are on its waitlist. The organization hopes to double its programs over the next 18 to 24 months. Before the expansion, the nonprofit served 150 children, adults and veterans each week with 30 therapy horses and about 1,200 active volunteers, according to a separate announcement from the group.

ManeGait President and CEO Patricia Nelson framed the moment in a statement. "Now together, we have the opportunity to fill this space with even more life, breakthroughs and possibilities," she said.

Original reporting by Local Profile; additional details drawn from ManeGait's announcements and Hoodline's coverage of the $13.2 million campaign.