Hand, Hoof and Heart is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization based in Acworth, Georgia, offering therapeutic riding and animal-assisted learning programs for individuals with and without disabilities. The program is designed to support cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development through structured interaction with horses and other farm animals in an inclusive and supportive environment.
Founded in 2013, the organization serves children, teens, and adults across the Cobb and Cherokee County areas, with programs focused on building confidence, independence, and life skills through equine-based experiences.
About This Program
Hand, Hoof and Heart provides equine-assisted services that combine therapeutic riding, horsemanship, and experiential learning. Sessions are structured to help participants build physical coordination, emotional regulation, and social connection through guided interaction with horses.
The program also emphasizes inclusive, relationship-based learning. Participants may engage in both mounted riding and unmounted activities such as grooming, leading, and groundwork, with instruction adapted to individual abilities and goals.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Therapeutic horsemanship
- Equine-assisted learning (EAL)
- Unmounted horsemanship and groundwork
- Inclusive equine-assisted summer camps
- Farm-based animal-assisted learning activities
- Volunteer-supported equine programs
Who They Serve
Hand, Hoof and Heart may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Individuals with disabilities
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder
- Individuals with anxiety or low self-esteem
- Individuals with cognitive or developmental differences
- Participants seeking inclusive recreational or therapeutic equine experiences
Facility and Setting
The program operates on a multi-acre farm in Acworth, Georgia, with pastures, barns, and dedicated areas for riding and horsemanship activities. The setting is designed to be accessible and welcoming, supporting both structured lessons and broader animal-assisted learning experiences.
The environment emphasizes hands-on engagement, allowing participants to learn through direct interaction with horses and farm life in a calm, supportive rural setting.
What Makes Them Unique
Hand, Hoof and Heart stands out for its strong emphasis on inclusivity and its blend of therapeutic riding with broader animal-assisted and life-skills programming. Rather than focusing solely on riding, the program integrates horsemanship, personal development, and community involvement into a unified learning model.
Its volunteer-driven structure and small-group learning environment also allow for individualized attention, helping participants build confidence and practical skills at their own pace.