Dale Brookes had a plan last month. But so did Mother Nature.

In the end, it was the rain that curtailed Brookes’ fundraiser for the Equine Rescue Alliance.

“We wanted to let people know that we need funds, and wood for our crosstie areas,” said Brookes, who helped found and re-name the Marysville-based nonprofit, formerly known as the Equine Rescue Association, on May 29. “We can’t do it without public assistance. The rain says that we aren’t getting any wood.”

The recently named Equine Rescue Alliance president was hoping to collect donations for repairs during the second annual memorial fundraiser. Volunteers had scheduled a raffle, pony rides, and had refreshments and food available for guests.

Instead, Brookes fed volunteers a hearty meal as the rain kept most people away from the day-long event.

Despite the setback, Brookes said she is still seeking donations for the organization, which re-opened in February after nearly closing down due to financial reasons.

“We want to let people know that we are still here,” she said. “We had to close our doors earlier this year, but now we’re back a point where we can help.”

The Equine Rescue Alliance is a 501(c)3 organization that primarily takes in unwanted or abused horses and helps find them new homes throughout the Northwest.

Approximately 20 horses are currently being taken care of — some are permanent residents of the facility, while others are available for adoption or for foster care.

“It used to be a last stop for horses,” Brookes said. “It’s not a last stop anymore.”

About 20-25 volunteers — mostly teenagers — care for the organization’s horses, along with Brookes and the rest of the alliance’s Board of Directors.

As rain continued to fall May 29, Brookes took out a picture of one of the horses that the Equine Rescue Alliance has rehabilitated. She showed a picture of a horse named Katie, who had had her foot ripped open.

A second picture showed Katie’s completely healed foot.

“She’s a good case,” Brookes said, holding up the two pictures. “We’ve helped nurse her back, but she’s now just a pasture pet. She’s a wonderful horse, but she’ll never be ridden again. But this is what we’re all about.”

Monetary donations, as well hay, pellets, wood shavings, lumber, plywood, rubber stall mats and joint and hoof supplements are currently being sought by Equine Rescue Alliance volunteers.

Donations can be made by calling 360-658-5494, visiting www.era-horsehaven.org, or by dropping by the organization, located at 2415 116th Street NE, Marysville.