By Susan R. Wenner
Herald Publisher/ People Editor
Shane Holland and his wife, Rickelle are saddling up and ready to ride for their
Off R Rocker Dying Breed Foundation’s Boots Buckles and Ball Gowns Western Gala.
The fundraising event will take place on Friday, April, 25, from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Seminole County’s popular, HorsePower Ranch, 280 Campbell Ranch Run in Geneva. The evening will feature a family-friendly event with live music, dinner, raffles and an auction. All proceeds will go toward sponsoring youth rodeo athletes.
With the support of family, friends, rodeo families and volunteers, Holland expressed that they all have been a huge part of the foundations success. He emphasized that, “especially my wife, she’s my best friend, none of this would be possible without her. Growing up, I watched my family serve, especially those who were in the military. Giving back was always a part of our life. That sense of service definitely shaped Off R Rocker’s mission and values.”
Holland shared that his love for rodeo and the cowboy lifestyle has been a lifelong love.
“As I competed I saw the financial challenges many young athletes face,” he said. “I wanted to create something that not only supports them financially but encourages them to chase their dreams. My wife, Rickelle, is a teacher and we worked together to build the nonprofit. Her only requirement was that the kids keep their grades up to stay on the team so our team members have to have A’s and B’s to receive their sponsorship.”
For years, Holland has been deeply involved in the rodeo world, not only as a competitor in bull riding but later serving as a bull fighter/Rodeo clown, a sponsor and a volunteer at youth events.
“My experience has given me and my family firsthand insight into the needs of the rodeo community, especially our youth,” he added. “Off R Rocker has been recognized locally for its dedication to youth rodeo athletes and for supporting events and kids across multiple states. We’re proud to be known nationwide as an organization that genuinely shows up and gives back.”
In addition, Holland cited that the foundation also hosts a rodeo fundraiser and this year the Western-themed gala.
“Our apparel sales and mechanical bull rides help fund sponsorships and scholarships, he said. “We currently sponsor 40 kids in rodeo across the U.S., helping with entry fees, gear and travel costs. We attend and support youth rodeos, provide Off R Rocker merchandise for fundraising and use social media to highlight up-and-coming athletes.”
The most rewarding aspect of the couple’s endeavors was cited as the joy in seeing a young athlete light up when they’re sponsored, win their first buckle, or simply get the chance to compete.
“It’s everything,” he enthusiastically shared. “Knowing we’ve made a difference in their journey makes it all worthwhile. We do plan to expand our reach by creating a scholarship program, hosting more events like Western-themed galas, rodeos and mock competitions for hospital patients. Eventually launching a mentorship initiative that pairs young athletes with experienced rodeo pros.”
In their rodeo and cowboy world, the Hollands have come to realize that all of these kids past and present have become family and the parents also.
“Some of them say they wouldn’t have been able to compete without our help,” he reflected. “That moment sealed the deal. I knew we were doing something truly meaningful. You make these kids feel like they matter. That compliment stuck with me. It reminded me why we do what we do.”
For more information call 386-466-5213,
https://www.facebook.com/share/18n9amBThC/?mibextid=wwXIfr or go to www.OffRRocker.com
