Horizon’s 18th Annual Matters of the Heart Gala – An Evening at the Derby was a spectacular success, bringing together corporate sponsors, donors, and supporters at the Pfister Hotel to benefit Horizon’s Grief Resource Center. Guests were treated to a memorable evening featuring a visit from Iddy Biddy, the miniature horse, a lively performance by The WhiskeyBelles, exciting horse races, and a drum circle led by Horizon’s music therapists that brought guests together in a shared rhythm—symbolizing the healing and connection fostered every day through the Grief Resource Center.

The evening also celebrated three extraordinary Touching Lives Award honorees—Mike Gifford, Linda Smith, and Dr. S. Vance Strother—whose compassionate work and lasting impact truly reflect the heart of Horizon’s mission.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of attendees, sponsors, and supporters, the gala raised an incredible $148,000, nearly $10,000 more than last year, to directly support the essential services of the Grief Resource Center.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors:

Event Sponsor: AT&T
Trophy Level Sponsors: Action Graphics, Ascension Wisconsin, Digicorp, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Sysco
Garland Level Sponsors: Bell Ambulance, Dragonfly Health, and the Regnitz Family
Rose Level Sponsors: Enterprise, Integrity Wealth Management, Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Network Health, Vizance, and Willis Towers Watson

A heartfelt thank you also goes out to Horizon CEO Coleen Schmidt, our incredible Gala Planning Committee, the dedicated event volunteers, and the evening’s dynamic hosts—Emcee Andrew Varela and Auctioneer Mitch Nelles—who brought energy, enthusiasm, and heart to the event.

Together, we made this gala one for the record books—and most importantly, we made a lasting difference for those navigating grief and loss in our community.