A Night of Community and Compassion
We can still hear the music, see the raised paddles, and taste the food that carried us through Sale Ranch Gala 2025. From the first hello to the final toast, it was a night that pulled us together under the stars in support of the animal residents who call Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary home.
More than 130 guests gathered at The Stables at Somerset, dressed in denim and diamonds, ready to celebrate and support the animal residents of Sale Ranch. By the time the night ended, together we had raised over $84,000 — a number that felt just as big as the love in the room.
The evening began with the Sommers Grace Duo, their voices weaving through the Stables as friends reconnected and glasses clinked. Familiar songs drifted in the background, giving the night a warm rhythm that carried us all evening.
Food, Music, and Meaningful Moments
Then came the food — and what a feast it was. The Plot Restaurant offered trays of colorful, flavorful appetizers that had us murmuring with delight before we sat down for two beautifully crafted courses. Every plate was fresh and bright, showcasing seasonal ingredients at their best. Later, the dessert bar drew us back in for just one more taste.
Before long, the room hushed as Founder Jen Sale spoke about the work of Sale Ranch — the bright wins, the hard losses, and the daily reminders of why this sanctuary matters. You could feel the room leaning in with her words.
Later in the night, Board Member and CFO Zac Follmer shared how Sale Ranch had changed his own life and reminded us that every monthly pledge and one-time donation makes this work possible. Board Member and Vice President Caroline Knox then introduced Lillybelle, the tiny lamb born with health challenges, sharing what she had endured in her fragile first days and what it means for her to finally be safe at Sale Ranch.
Art, Applause, and Auction Energy
The energy soared when Amy Burkman took the stage with brush in hand. Watching her paint live was thrilling — strokes flying, music pulsing — but when she spun
the canvases to reveal Lillybelle and then Waffles, the blind Jersey cow, the room erupted. Applause, cheers, even gasps. It wasn’t just the art; it was Amy’s talent colliding with the lives of two animals we’ve all come to love.
Jen returned to the stage later in the evening to honor longtime supporters and to thank Dr. Celeste Martin, the sanctuary’s Medical Director, whose dedication ensures more than ninety residents receive the care they need.
By the time the auctions began, the Stables were alive with energy. Paddles lifted high as bidding wars erupted over Amy’s two paintings, followed by spirited bidding for a private pizza party at the ranch. And then came the hay drive — donations pouring in, one after another, ensuring that every resident will be fed through 2026. It felt less like bidding and more like all of us pitching in, side by side.
Kindness Lives Here
Looking around that night — the stars overhead, the laughter, the food, the generosity — it was clear to every one of us that Kindness Lives Here. Gala 2025 wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reminder of what happens when compassion gathers in one place. And if you weren’t with us this year, we’d love for you to pull up a chair next time.
