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Once Upon a Pasture: The Story of Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats
Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats (AHH) was born from a deep understanding of the power of connection—connection to animals, creativity, nature, and, most importantly, to ourselves and each other. It all started with a simple but profound truth: healing comes in many forms, and sometimes, the most powerful healers have hooves.
Founder Bridged the Gap of Art and Equine Rescue
Meet Anne Krocak
Founder Anne Krocak has spent her life integrating art, education, and community engagement, continually seeking ways to uplift and empower others. As a lifelong artist and advocate for marginalized communities, she has seen firsthand the transformative power of creative expression and hands-on experiences.
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But it wasn't until she entered the world of equine rescue that she discovered an extraordinary parallel—the healing journey of a rescued horse mirrors a person's healing journey.
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The Horse Who
Inspired a Mission
Meet Fable
The idea for AHH began to take shape when Anne met Fable, a once-untouchable rescue horse who had been discarded and forgotten. With patience, time, and trust, Fable transformed from a fearful and distant horse into one that craved human connection.
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That transformation reflected so many of the stories Anne had encountered—people overcoming trauma, reclaiming their strength, and finding their place in the world. If a rescue horse could heal and trust again, so could the people who worked with them.
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But it wasn’t until she entered the world of equine rescue that she discovered an extraordinary parallel—the healing journey of a rescued horse mirrors a person's healing journey.
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A Vision Born in a Time of Crisis
The journey to founding AHH wasn’t without its challenges. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of caring for rescue horses tripled—the price of hay, grain, and veterinary care skyrocketed, leaving many horses without safe refuge. At the same time, the need for human connection was greater than ever.
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Isolation, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation reached crisis levels in the community. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, one thing became clear.
Time spent breathing with horses helped regulate the nervous system, easing the anxiety created by COVID-era isolation.
And so, in the stillness of the pasture, in the rhythmic motion of brushing a horse, people found a sense of peace they hadn’t felt in years.
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Anne knew AHH had to be more than just a sanctuary for horses—it had to be a refuge for people, too.
Growing a Community of Healing
Today, AHH continues to grow, offering community-driven programs that support rescue horses and those who come to learn from them.
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Who We Serve
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Children struggling with anxiety find confidence in the presence of horses.
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Veterans seeking peace discover stillness in the rhythm of nature.
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Volunteers looking for purpose experience healing through service and connection.
At AHH, every being—human or horse—has value. Together, we create a space for hope, healing, and belonging.
Join Us to Sustain Our Mission
Your support helps sustain our rescue horses, expand our community programs, and create a space where healing and connection thrive. Whether you donate, become a member, volunteer, or partner with us, you play a vital role in making a meaningful impact.
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Ways to Get Involved
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Become a Member: Enjoy exclusive benefits while directly supporting our horses and programs.
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Donate: Make a one-time or recurring gift to help us continue our mission.
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Volunteer: Give your time and talents to support our programs, horses, and community events.
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Nonprofit Partnerships: Collaborate with us to expand access and opportunities for those in need.
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Business Partnerships: Sponsor programs, host a team-building retreat or align your brand with purpose-driven impact.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of compassion, connection, and growth. Join us today!