Cynthia DeBaun, a custom jewelry designer who been crafting and selling stunning pieces for many years, held a Holiday Trunk Show at her home Nov. 14 and 15, featuring her jewelry as well as other local artisans.
Her goal was to raise funds to support Seneca’s GAIT program, located at Canyon Acres Ranch Children’s Treatment Center in Anaheim Hills.
GAIT stands for Guided Animal Intervention Therapy, and as their website explains, is designed to “help vulnerable children overcome the hurdles that affect their young lives, providing hope and healing leading them down the path of success.”
It’s an experience that brings together horses, volunteers, disabled and disadvantaged children, adults and their families for an hour of therapeutic horseback riding.
Like any small nonprofit, Seneca’s GAIT program needs financial assistance to buy additional horses ($15,000 each),
feed, and rider and horse sponsorships.
DeBaun decided to donate 100 percent of her jewelry sales to the GAIT program, and matched that donation dollar for dollar.
“We made $7,975 in total sales, and I am matching that amount for a total of $15,950,” said DeBaun. “Along with two private donation checks of $10,000 and $5,000, we raised $30,950—enough for two horses.”
“The work they do is beyond wonderful,” said DeBaun. “The many clients and supporters that were a part of this event in one way or another were the true angels that helped to make all this what is was.”
DeBaun said she plans to volunteer to work in the GAIT program next year. “They need volunteers desperately. Not enough people now about them.”
For more information on her collection, visit cynthiadebaundesigns.com. For more information on Seneca’s GAIT program, visit senecafoa.org/gait.
