reprinted from The Press-Enterprise

The public can learn about Horses4Heroes and End of the Trail Ranch in Perris when the ranch holds an open house Saturday, February 18, 2012.

The event will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 21211 Tyson Road, Perris.

Horses4Heroes, founded in 2006, is building a nationwide network of family-friendly, child-friendly horseback riding facilities and equine-related service providers. The mission is to make horseback riding affordable for the families of military personnel (active duty and veterans), law enforcement officers, firefighters/EMTs, critical care and hospice nurses, special needs school teachers, and families who are struggling with serious, chronic illnesses and/or disabilities.

For $25, these “heroes” will receive membership materials, T-shirts and a directory of equine-related services that have agreed to give members a discount on products or services.

The open house Saturday is free and open to all, not just potential Horses4Heroes members. The ranch will offer hay rides, horse rides, riding and horse shoeing demonstrations, food, drinks and special animals for children to interact with.

End of the Trail Ranch offers equestrian-themed birthday parties, send-off events, discounted lessons, horse shows and more free open houses.

Information: Tammy Bucker at the ranch, 623-341-7032, or Horses4Heroes, 702-645-8446.