by Kirsten Grenier
American Idol finalist Melinda Doolittle will headline Saddle Up for the Derby!, a May 3rd charity event to benefit Saddle Up!, a local nonprofit that provides therapeutic support to children and youth with disabilities.
The event will take place at the Chavis Farm Barn, a 22-acre private residence farm in Franklin. The evening will feature a Kentucky Derby style meal catered by Puckett’s Gro. & Restaurant and a bourbon tasting courtesy of Grapevine Wine & Spirits. It will also include a fashion wear contest and lawn games including corn hole, horse shoes and a stick horse race. Additionally, guests will enjoy a performance from Melinda Doolittle, acclaimed by the New York Times as a “phenomenally gifted” artist.
“This is an adult event with the opportunity to leave the kids behind to enjoy some fun,” said Jennie Green, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for favor!, the event planning company that is coordinating Saddle Up for the Derby!
Though the event is adult-oriented, it’s all about benefiting children and youth with disabilities. Green said that Saddle Up! gives kids the opportunity to leave behind the world of special classes, tutors, doctors, hospitals and medicine, which is often more therapy than the best educational or medical minds can deliver.
“Giving the confidence to these children to jump out of their comfort zone is truly rewarding,” Green added.
Chavis Farm Barn is located at 4054 Wilson Pike in Franklin. Gates open at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $50 and are available for purchase here through April 28.
