The Horse Shelter’s 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser on June 1, 2025, offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together in support of New Mexico’s equine rescue efforts. Taking place at the Shelter’s ranch in Cerrillos, this annual event provides a chance to contribute directly to the ongoing mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming horses in need — all while enjoying a delicious catered lunch and the company of fellow supporters.
The event promises to be a meaningful gathering for animal lovers, volunteers, and donors who share a commitment to improving the lives of at-risk horses across the state.
As the shelter continues its vital work of supporting 93 rescue horses, the auction and luncheon fundraiser plays an essential part in sustaining their operations and ensuring the future care of these animals. With numerous ways to participate and contribute, this event stands as a testament to the power of compassionate giving and the collective efforts of the Santa Fe community.
About The Horse Shelter: A Lifeline for New Mexico’s Horses
Just south of Santa Fe, The Horse Shelter has spent more than two decades providing critical support to New Mexico’s at-risk equine population. As a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries accredited rescue, the organization operates with a commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare, maintaining a ranch that is both a safe harbor and a transition point for horses in need.
Since its founding in 2000, this nonprofit organization has focused on its core mission of rescuing and rehoming horses that have been abandoned, neglected, or abused. The shelter is home to as many as 100 equines at a time — horses that are rehabilitated and eventually placed in adoptive homes when possible. For those who cannot be adopted, lifelong care is provided on-site at the shelter’s 128-acre facility.
The Horse Shelter stands out in New Mexico’s animal welfare network, working closely with law enforcement, animal control, and concerned individuals to respond to reports of equine neglect. Their work extends beyond immediate care, encompassing long-term horse rehabilitation and public outreach aimed at building awareness of equine welfare issues statewide.
As a working equine sanctuary, The Horse Shelter also opens its gates to those looking to make a difference. There are numerous volunteer opportunities, including horse care, ranch maintenance, and Resale Store support. Each role contributes to the larger goal of safeguarding the dignity and wellbeing of New Mexico’s equine companions.
Event Details: What to Expect at the 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon
Location: The Horse Shelter Ranch, 100 AB Old Cash Ranch Road, Cerrillos, NM
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025
The Horse Shelter’s 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser brings supporters together under an 8,000-square-foot tent for a meaningful afternoon in support of equine rescue efforts. Guests will enjoy a catered lunch with drinks, live music, and a chance to participate in both a silent auction and a live auction fundraiser featuring unique items donated by local artists, businesses, and friends of the shelter.
In addition to the auctions, guided tours of the property offer attendees the opportunity to meet rescue horses currently in the shelter’s care and learn more about the nonprofit’s ongoing work.
Why Your Support Matters: Transforming the Lives of Rescue Horses
Each year, The Horse Shelter takes in abused, abandoned, and neglected horses from across New Mexico, providing them with safe shelter, medical care, and the opportunity for rehabilitation. Attending the 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser is one way to directly support this work, but the need extends far beyond a single afternoon.
Donate to horse rescue efforts like The Horse Shelter, and you help provide critical care for animals that have suffered due to cruelty or indifference. Funds raised through this charity help cover feed, veterinary treatment, farrier care, shelter maintenance, and training to prepare horses for adoption. Every contribution counts, especially in a region where equine neglect remains a persistent challenge.
This annual event offers a direct way to engage in impactful giving. With the support of donations to the nonprofit, The Horse Shelter has cared for more than 900 horses since its founding. Every attendee and donor helps give neglected horses a second chance and, in many cases, brings joy and purpose to the people who welcome them home.
Your presence, bid, or gift helps support animal welfare in a practical and lasting way. It’s a clear path to help abused horses regain trust, strength, and stability.
How to Participate: Tickets, Sponsorships, and Ways to Give
Tickets for the fundraiser are now available for purchase ahead of the Sunday, June 1, 2025, event. Tickets are $90 per person, and of that amount, $50 qualifies as a tax-deductible donation. The space is limited to 320 guests, so be sure to get your tickets soon!
Individuals and businesses interested in additional community involvement can make an event sponsorship contribution or sponsor a horse directly. These contributions help provide feed, veterinary care, and daily support for the animals at the shelter.
Not able to attend? You can still donate to animal shelter operations or volunteer with horses throughout the year. Each action supports the continued care and rehabilitation of equines across New Mexico.
Meet the Horses: Stories of Hope and Second Chances
At The Horse Shelter, each horse has a story of recovery and transformation. The shelter is home to many horses who have come to the shelter in a variety of ways, such as law enforcement seizures, abandonment cases, or voluntary surrenders. Despite their pasts, these horses find new beginnings through rehabilitation and care.
Take Polly’s story, for example. Polly was rescued in poor condition but has since made a remarkable recovery. Her journey from severe malnutrition to a healthy, adoptable horse is a testament to the shelter’s dedication to rescue horse success and equine recovery. Polly is just one example of how second chances can lead to new opportunities for both horses and their future owners.
In 2023, The Horse Shelter took in 69 horses and adopted 43 to good homes. This marked one of their most significant intake years and showcases the critical need for rescue efforts in New Mexico. These horses are now well on their way to recovery, and several are available for adoption, offering a new start after a difficult past.
By attending the Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser, you’ll have the chance to meet some of these horses firsthand. The event will allow you to interact with the animals, learn about their individual journeys, and see the impact your gift can make toward their recovery.
Stay Connected: Follow The Horse Shelter for Updates and Stories
Stay informed about The Horse Shelter’s work by following them on social media. Get updates on rescue horses, event details, and inspiring stories directly from their Instagram and Facebook pages. Join a growing supporters community and stay engaged with the shelter’s efforts to give horses a second chance.
Follow for real-time event updates, auction previews, and news about how you can support animal welfare. Share your own story and be part of the conversation as the 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser approaches.
Help Give Horses the Life They Deserve
The 22nd Annual Auction & Luncheon Fundraiser at The Horse Shelter is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of New Mexico’s rescued horses. Mark your calendar for Sunday, June 1, at the Horse Shelter Ranch, where you can enjoy a catered lunch, participate in live and silent auctions, and meet the horses that your support helps to rescue and rehabilitate.
By attending this charity luncheon, you support a shelter that helps horses throughout New Mexico. This is more than just an event; it’s a chance to engage with the community impact of The Horse Shelter and see firsthand how your contributions are helping to rescue horses in need.
Celebrate compassion, connect with fellow supporters, and learn about the meaningful work taking place at The Horse Shelter. With just 320 spots available, this event is expected to sell out quickly — be sure to get your tickets soon!
The Horse Shelter provides life-saving care to abandoned, neglected, and abused horses across New Mexico. Learn more about their mission and how you can help at thehorseshelter.org or visit them at their 128-acre ranch just south of Santa Fe.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE HORSE SHELTER
