Music, Casino Excitement and Community Giving Take Center Stage at Boots & BBQ: Rodeo Royale

Music, Casino Excitement and Community Giving Take Center Stage at Boots & BBQ: Rodeo Royale

Published on November 04, 2026

By Heather Walters

The music, the barbecue, the casino tables, and the opportunity to make a difference are all coming together as the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation Advocates prepare for the 14th Annual Boots & BBQ: Rodeo Royale, presented by Liberty Health, on Friday, November 20, 2026, at the Robeson County Fairgrounds.

Behind all the excitement is a purpose that extends well beyond one evening: helping strengthen healthcare for patients and families throughout our community. Proceeds from this year's event will support The Future of Care Is Here, a Foundation initiative focused on UNC Health Southeastern's transformation into a Level III Trauma Center, enhancements to its Healthcare Simulation Lab, and education, mentorship, and workforce development opportunities that will help prepare future healthcare professionals.

And while the purpose behind the evening is significant, the Foundation Advocates are making sure the experience is just as memorable.

With live entertainment by Parks Brothers, sponsored by Smith's Refrigeration, guests can look forward to an evening of music, dancing, great food, and plenty of opportunities for fun.

Adding to the excitement, Casino Party Aces will bring a professionally staffed casino experience featuring 14 gaming tables, with support from High Roller Sponsor ApolloMD. The expanded casino experience will give guests another way to enjoy the evening between trips to the dance floor.

And, of course, it wouldn't be the same without the barbecue! Fuller's Old-Fashioned Bar-B-Q will provide the meal for an evening that has become a favorite tradition among Foundation supporters.

"We want people to come out and have a great time," said Kaye Fraley, a member of the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation Board of Directors who is chairing this year's event alongside her husband, Kevin. "Between the live music, casino games, and great food, we're looking forward to a wonderful evening. What makes it even better is knowing that everyone who participates is helping support the future of healthcare in our community."

With November 20 quickly approaching, the Foundation Advocates are encouraging businesses and individuals to consider the major sponsorship opportunities still available. These partnerships play an important role in the success of the event and offer community supporters a meaningful way to invest in the future of local healthcare. Additional sponsorship opportunities, individual tickets, and reserved tables are also available, providing several ways for the community to participate and show its support.

"We've shared a great deal about the important work these initiatives will support and what they will mean for our hospital and the communities we serve," said Sissy Grantham, Executive Director of the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation. "Now we're inviting our community to be part of making that work possible. Every sponsorship, every ticket purchased, and every contribution helps us move forward. And we get to have a wonderful time together while doing it!"

The Foundation Advocates invite the community to be part of this year's event, whether through sponsorship, gathering friends for an evening out, or making a contribution in support of the Foundation's mission.

Boots & BBQ: Rodeo Royale, presented by Liberty Health, will be held Friday, November 20, 2026, from 7-11 p.m. at the Robeson County Fairgrounds.

For sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and reserved table information, visit https://www.unchealthsoutheastern.org/foundation/events/boots-and-bbq/ or contact the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation at (910) 671-5583 or [email protected].

Heather Walters is the manager of Donor Experience & Engagement for the UNC Health Southeastern Foundation.