BEAMING Inc. invites the public to join its 25th Anniversary 9/11 Day of Remembrance on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the BEAMING Ranch, 2692 County Road GG, Neenah. This free community event will honor the lives lost on September 11, recognize those who continue to serve our communities, and celebrate the healing power of hope, resilience, and connection.
For 25 years, BEAMING Inc. has partnered with horses to improve the lives of children, adults, veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities through innovative equine-assisted services. Today, the nonprofit provides more than 4,000 experiences annually and donates more than $170,000 in services each year, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent someone from receiving support.
"September 11 forever changed our nation, but it also reminded us of the strength, compassion, and courage found within our communities," said Katie Samuelson, Chief Executive Officer of BEAMING Inc. "This event is an opportunity to remember those we lost, honor those who continue to serve, and bring our community together through hope, gratitude, and healing."
The evening will be led by Walter Zerrenner, Vice President of BEAMING Inc., serving as Master of Ceremonies. The program will include an opening invocation by Kelly Bales, a welcome from Katie Samuelson, recognition of sponsors and community partners, and remarks honoring veterans and first responders.
Special guests include Neenah Police Chief Aaron Olson and Neenah Fire Chief Travis Tesch, who will share reflections on service, sacrifice, and the importance of strong community partnerships. The event will also recognize EMS professionals, dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare workers, military members, veterans, and their families through a special "Keys to the Ranch" recognition ceremony.
Guests will hear from Dr. Janet Hagen, Ph.D., LPC, MBA, Clinical Director of BEAMING Inc., who will discuss healing after trauma, resilience, hope, and the unique role horses play in supporting emotional wellness and recovery.
One of the evening's featured presentations will be the keynote address by Polly Anna Olsen, titled "Finding Purpose in the Darkest Times: How One Voice Can Make a Difference." Drawing from her personal journey through unimaginable loss, homelessness, and adversity, Olsen shares a message of perseverance, purpose, and hope that has inspired audiences across the country.
The event will also feature a live BEAMING horse demonstration showcasing equine-assisted programming and the impact horses have on veterans, individuals, and families working through life's challenges.
Throughout the evening, guests are invited to enjoy complimentary sweet corn, food available from Egg'n For Heroes ( with donation), tours of the ranch and veterans' bunkhouses, community resource booths, volunteer opportunities, and visits with BEAMING's horses.
A summer raffle benefiting BEAMING's equine-assisted programs will be held at 5:00 p.m. Prizes include:
Winners do not need to be present to win.
Every raffle ticket purchased and every donation received helps BEAMING continue providing life-changing equine-assisted services to individuals and families throughout Northeast Wisconsin.
BEAMING Inc. 25th Anniversary 9/11 Day of Remembrance
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: BEAMING Ranch
2692 County Road GG
Neenah, WI 54956
Admission: Free and open to the public.
Community members are encouraged to bring their families, meet local first responders, honor our nation's heroes, and experience the mission of BEAMING while helping ensure these life-changing programs remain available for generations to come.
BEAMING Inc. is a PATH International and Spirit Horse Center dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families through equine-assisted services. Since 2004, BEAMING has provided innovative, trauma-informed programs that strengthen confidence, resilience, communication, leadership, independence, and overall well-being for thousands of participants each year.