(Attendees of “Gallop for Good,” a one-day fundraiser hosted by 3D Exhibits’ Kim Merkin at Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center, pose for a group photo in front of the event’s themed “Kissing Booth.” The event brought together more than 100 trade show professionals and community members in support of equine-assisted therapy for children and veterans.)
3D Exhibits’ Kim Merkin rallies trade show professionals for a day of horse-powered healing in Northern California.
More than 100 trade show professionals, clients, and community members gathered in Orinda, California, at Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center for “Gallop for Good,” a one-day fundraiser hosted by Kim Merkin, VP of Strategic Accounts at 3D Exhibits. The event raised awareness and support for the Bay Area nonprofit’s equine-assisted therapy programs, which serve children and veterans with disabilities.
The daytime gathering featured horse petting, painting, and dancing, along with a short film, Lauren’s Story, about a young girl whose mobility was restored through therapeutic riding. The experience left attendees moved, inspired, and, in Merkin’s words, “reminded of the power of in-person connection.”
“Gallop for Good proved that we can strengthen our industry connections, give back to our community, and—yes—horse around a little, too,” said Merkin.
Merkin’s role at 3D Exhibits and her three-decade career in event marketing gave the fundraiser a strong convention industry hook. As previously profiled in Exhibit City News’s story “Reaching the Heart of the Team” Merkin and her team are no strangers to blending corporate and community impact.
“I’m in this industry because of my love for people,” she said. “But the fast pace and automation can also create isolation. This was a way to reconnect—with each other, and with something meaningful.”
Merkin has worked on more than 900 live events annually and has helped shape programs for top-tier brands in biotech, fintech, and cybersecurity. Her career spans roles at Czarnowski, Exhibitgroup/Giltspur, and now 3D Exhibits, where she manages strategic accounts and leads client experience initiatives nationwide.
Notable industry attendees included Diana Cartwright (Hyve Solutions), Karen Cooper (formerly HP), and Sina Hanson (RainFocus). Many said they planned to stay involved with Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center following the event.
“Gallop for Good” also extended Merkin’s long track record of outside-the-booth leadership. She launched EBUG (East Bay United Gals) in 2000 and founded Switchback Sisters, a backpacking collective for women of all ages. Over the years, she’s hosted themed gatherings for convention pros, including the “Dog & Pony Show,” which first introduced her to Xenophon’s mission.
“When I visited the stables in person, I was blown away,” she said. “The joy, healing, and confidence these horses bring to people is unmatched.”
To learn more about Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center, visit www.xenophontrc.org. To connect with Kim Merkin, email KMerkin@3dExhibits.com.
