Once Upon a Pasture: The Story of Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats Sanctuary
Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats Sanctuary (AHHS) 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
Anne’s vision began with Fable, a discarded rescue horse who, through patience and trust, transformed from fearful to affectionate. Her journey mirrored countless human stories of overcoming trauma—showing that if a rescued horse can heal and trust again, so can we.
A Vision Born from Crisis
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After the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of caring for rescue horses tripled—hay, grain, and veterinary care skyrocketed, leaving many horses without safe refuge. Meanwhile, isolation and anxiety surged in the human community.
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Spending breathing with horses helped Anne soothe her nervous system and ease her anxiety. In the quiet rhythm of the pasture and the simple act of brushing a horse, other people found a peace they hadn’t felt in years.
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Anne realized AHH had to be more than a sanctuary for horses—it had to be a refuge for people, too.
Growing a Community of Healing
Today, AHH grows through community programs that support rescue horses and those who learn from them.
Who We Serve
Children facing anxiety find confidence with horses.
Veterans seeking peace discover nature’s calm.
Volunteers searching for purpose heal through service and connection.
At AHH, every being—human or horse—is valued. Together, we create hope, healing, and belonging.
Join Us to Sustain Our Mission
Your support sustains our horses, expands programs, and nurtures a space for healing. Whether you donate, join, volunteer, or partner, you make a real difference.
Get Involved
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Become a Member: Enjoy perks while supporting our mission.
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Donate: Give one-time or recurring gifts.
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Volunteer: Share your skills and time.
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Nonprofit Partnerships: Collaborate to broaden access.
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Business Partnerships: Sponsor programs or retreats.
Together, let’s spark compassion, connection, and growth. Join us!