Charity Fund-Raiser Is Planned Sunday

An old-fashioned Country Western Hoedown and barbecue Sunday will raise money for a Chatsworth charity that helps disabled people and the mentally handicapped build muscular control through horseback riding.

“It’s just a fun time,” said Glenda Boyajian, coordinator for the event held by Ride On Therapeutic Horsemanship. Her son, Brandon, a 12-year-old with Down syndrome, has been riding with the group for 2 1/2 years.

“It took him a while to get used to the idea that he would be moving around on this big animal,” said Boyajian, who lives in Chatsworth. But she said the horseback riding helps Brandon develop coordination and balance while also learning to control the animal.

This is the second annual Country Western fund-raiser for the group. Last year’s barbecue attracted 350 people and raised $6,000, Boyajian said. The money helps pay for board and care of the horses.

The barbecue is being held at the Iverson Movie Ranch in Chatworth from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday and will include live music, food, pony rides, a silent auction and a western stunt show.

Tickets are $20 for an adult, or two for $35. Tickets for children age 5 to 12 are $10, but children under 5 get in free.

For more information, call Gloria Hamblin, the program director, at (818) 700-2971.