Frank Murphy interviews Brandy McDonnell, the Founder and Executive Director of STRIDE Equine Therapy in Kingston, Tennessee. The organization will hold its first major fundraiser, Riding for the Roses, on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Blue Point Stables, 675 Buck Creek Road in Kingston. Tickets are $60 or two for $100. 

Attendees can watch the live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby. There will be a best hat contest, signature drinks, a silent auction, STRIDE rider demonstrations and more. It benefits the Youth with Promise program to provide scholarships for local youth who need a place to belong, grow, and thrive. 

The acronym STRIDE stands for Supportive Therapeutic Riding for Independence, Development, and Empowerment. The organizations mission is to provide high-quality equine activities to people with disabilities, foster children and at-risk youth. Learn more at https://strideequinetherapy.org/