Hand, Hoof and Heart

Location: Acworth, Georgia, United States

Hand, Hoof and Heart is a nonprofit equine-assisted services program in Acworth, Georgia. It provides therapeutic horseback riding and other therapeutic animal-assisted programs for people with and without disabilities, serving participants across the Cobb and Cherokee County areas.

Its services go beyond therapeutic riding alone and reflect a broader equine-assisted model. The program offers therapeutic riding, therapeutic horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, summer camps, and farm-based educational activities. Program descriptions also note that lessons may include grooming, tacking, riding, and safe ground-based work with horses, with instruction adapted to each participant’s needs.

Hand, Hoof and Heart traces its beginnings to 2013 in Marietta and now operates out of Acworth. The organization describes itself as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and its public contact information identifies Erin Chimberoff as director. Team materials also indicate that instructors include staff working toward therapeutic riding instructor certification.

Their Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/handhoofheart.


Key Details:

  • Services: Therapeutic riding, therapeutic horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, summer camps, and therapeutic animal-assisted activities

  • Who they serve: People with and without disabilities, including individuals who may benefit from therapeutic recreation and adapted equine programming

  • Notable programs: Therapeutic riding lessons that include grooming, tacking, riding, and ground-based horse work, plus equine-assisted learning for teens and older students

  • Facility or setting: Nonprofit equine-assisted services center in Acworth serving Cobb and Cherokee County communities

  • Certifications or credentials: Staff materials note instructors working toward therapeutic riding instructor certification; broader program accreditation was not clearly stated

Last Verified: March 20, 2026.

Contact Information

FAQ

What types of equine therapy programs are offered here?

Most centers offer a mix of equine-assisted services (EAS), including therapeutic riding, groundwork activities, and sometimes equine-assisted therapy (EAT) with licensed professionals. Program availability varies by location.

Who can participate in programs like this?

Many equine-assisted programs serve children, teens, and adults with a wide range of needs, including physical disabilities, developmental challenges, learning differences, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Age ranges and participant eligibility vary by center.

Do I need prior horse experience to participate?

No. Programs are designed for beginners, and trained staff guide participants through every step using calm, well-trained therapy horses.

Is this a clinical therapy program or a recreational activity?

It depends on the center:

  • Equine-assisted therapy (EAT): Clinical therapy with licensed professionals
  • Equine-assisted activities (EAA): Non-clinical programs focused on skill-building and personal development

Contact the center to confirm what they offer.

How do I get started?

Most programs require a simple intake form and may include an initial assessment or trial session. You can contact the center directly using the information provided in the listing.