Empower A Life, One Hoofbeat At A Time: The Story Behind H.E.L.P.’s Annual Calendar Contest
- Chelsea Croissant
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Every year, something magical happens in the heart of Austin’s equestrian community. Through the gentle nuzzle of a horse and the laughter of those they serve, Horse Empowered Learning Programs (H.E.L.P.) creates moments of healing and transformation. And each year, the H.E.L.P. Fundraising Calendar Contest brings this magic to life in a way that not only celebrates our equine partners but also ensures their essential work continues.
I’m Chelsea Croissant, a photographer with a lifelong love for horses and a passion for helping others. When I first connected with Stephanie Powell, the Executive Director of H.E.L.P., I knew this was more than just a photography project—it was an opportunity to make a real difference. Together, we created the annual calendar contest: a fun, unique way for the community to come together and support this incredible nonprofit.
About H.E.L.P.
Horse Empowered Learning Programs, Inc. (H.E.L.P.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges through the transformative power of horses. Since 1984, H.E.L.P. has been a cornerstone of therapeutic support in the greater Austin area, offering programs like Therapeutic Riding (TR) and Equine Facilitated Learning (EAL). Through these programs, participants experience the unique bond between human and horse, gaining strength, confidence, and independence.
The horses at H.E.L.P. aren’t just animals—they’re partners in healing. Carefully selected for their gentle and friendly nature, these horses help participants build resilience and overcome obstacles in a nurturing and safe environment. Every session is led by PATH International accredited instructor and is individualized for each client to address their physical, emotional, and social needs while they learn skills of horseback riding.
How the Calendar Contest Began
As a lifelong horse lover and photographer, I wanted to find a way to give back to this incredible organization. The idea of a photo calendar contest seemed like the perfect fit—a chance to showcase the beauty of the horses while directly benefiting H.E.L.P.’s mission. With every photo submitted and every vote cast, the community gets to play a part in funding the care and programs that make such a difference in people’s lives.
The contest is simple: horse owners enter their favorite photos, then friends, family, and supporters vote for their favorites. The top 13 entries with the highest number of votes are featured in the annual calendar, with the grand prize winner receiving a professional photo session with Chelsea Croissant Photography.
We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s contest opens for entries on May 1st, 2026, and voting starts on May 14th. In past years, thanks to the incredible support of our community, we’ve raised over $10,000 to care for H.E.L.P.’s special horses and fund their life-changing programs. Ready to join in? Submit any photo of your favorite equine starting May 1st at the official contest page: www.gogophotocontest.com/helpcenterofaustin-2025. You can also follow along and stay up to date with all the excitement on our Facebook page and on Instagram (@chelsea.croissant.photography).
No Horse? No Problem!
One of the best parts of this contest is that everyone can participate—even if you don’t own a horse. You can sponsor one of H.E.L.P.’s incredible horses by reserving a calendar grid space. Your sponsorship helps cover essential costs like food, tack, farrier services, and veterinary care, ensuring these horses can continue their life-changing work.
A Chance for Local Businesses to Shine
The calendar contest also offers a unique opportunity for local businesses to give back and get recognized. Businesses can reserve a grid spot in the calendar, showcasing their name, message, or tribute to a dedicated audience of horse lovers and community supporters. It’s an affordable way to increase visibility while making a meaningful impact.
Why Your Support Matters
Every vote, entry, and sponsorship makes a tangible difference. The funds raised through this contest allow H.E.L.P. to continue providing therapeutic support to individuals with disabilities —creating moments of joy, growth, and healing that wouldn’t be possible without community support.
When you enter the contest or sponsor a horse, you’re not just contributing financially—you’re becoming part of a legacy of hope and empowerment. You’re ensuring that H.E.L.P. can keep transforming lives, one hoofbeat at a time, for many years to come.
Be Part of the Movement
This calendar contest is more than just a collection of beautiful images—it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the extraordinary connection between humans and horses. Whether you enter your horse’s photo, sponsor a therapy horse, or promote your business through a calendar spot, you’re playing a vital role in supporting H.E.L.P.’s mission.
Let’s make 2026 a year filled with hope and healing. Submit your photo between May 1st - 13th, then cast your vote May 14th - 31st, and help us continue empowering lives through the power of horses.
Submit a photo of your favorite equine starting May 1st at the official contest page: www.gogophotocontest.com/helpcenterofaustin-2025.
You can also follow along and stay up to date with all the excitement on our Facebook page and on Instagram (@chelsea.croissant.photography).
Learn more about H.E.L.P. here: www.helpcenterofaustin.org
Chelsea Croissant
Equestrian, Mother, Photographer
With a love for capturing details, true colors and skin tones, Chelsea curates galleries for clients that convey what words cannot in an emotional and powerful style.
For several years, she has been professionally photographing people who love their pets like family.
Chelsea will capture the overlooked details and connections that help tell your story. Clients like YOU who are looking to professionally document the special occasions that preserve the love that they have for those that are most important in their life; this is what makes Chelsea happy!
This article is from the April issue of Equine Business Magazine.
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