Ryerss Auxiliary Increases Funding for Equine Retirement Home -- Dedicated Volunteers Work to Support Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines

Coventryville, PA, June 23, 2003 - The dedicated volunteer force that makes up the Ryerss Farm Auxiliary has been working hard throughout this year to increase fundraising for the equine retirement home. Through its efforts, the group has raised over $39,000 to help Ryerss continue its mission of providing a home for retirees to spend their "golden years".

"We are constantly on the lookout for new ways to help Ryerss raise much-needed funds," said Lucia Still, Ryerss Auxiliary organizer. "The members of our group are proud to give our time and efforts to help this important cause."

The Auxiliary hosts a variety of special events on behalf of the farm. For example, this May the Second Annual Horseless Horse Show invited children of all ages to compete on their own two feet in traditional horse show classes. Events such as show jumping and barrel racing offered kids a great time and a chance at prizes, and families the opportunity to relax together on the grounds at Ryerss. The 2003 Horseless Horse Show netted over $2,000 to help Ryerss.

Perhaps the biggest event on the Auxiliary's calendar is the upcoming Third Annual Benefit Auction, scheduled for Sunday, October 19 at the Holiday Inn in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Last year's auction brought in $16,000 for Ryerss and the Auxiliary is currently seeking donations to make this year's event an even greater success!

In addition to special events, the Auxiliary members also attend horse shows and community festivals throughout the area in order to raise awareness of the farm, offer guided tours of Ryerss so that visitors can see the farm on weekends, and provide canisters at stores around Chester County, Pennsylvania to raise money for the facility. In fact, in April of this year the group brought in over $1,400 in donations with these canisters.

For more information on Ryerss and the Auxiliary's latest events, visit us on the Web at www.ryerss.com or call 610-469-0533.

Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines is the oldest and largest animal welfare organization of its kind in the United States. A nonprofit/charitable organization, it is dedicated to providing a place of peaceful retirement for aged horses, 18 and older. For the one-time admittance donation of just $3,500, owners can provide their horses with a safe and loving home at Ryerss for the rest of their lives.