New Year, New Milestones at Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats

As we step into 2025, the AHH community is buzzing with energy, gratitude, and growth. Here’s a roundup of the exciting updates and milestones happening in our herd:

Healing Together: How AHH’s Herd Inspires Wellness for Humans and Horses

At Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats (AHH), the journey of healing is shared between humans and horses. Every act of care—whether it’s a brushstroke on a canvas or on a horse’s mane—knits together the emotional wellbeing of everyone involved.

Take Moon, for example. Once hesitant and distant, this gentle soul has become a source of calm and connection. Volunteers often remark on how Moon seems to sense their emotions, grounding them with her quiet presence. Julie, a regular volunteer, shares, “When I’m with Moon, it’s like she knows how to help me breathe again.”

The herd’s love is reciprocal. Fable, who once shied away from touch, now greets visitors eagerly, embodying the transformative power of trust. Sunshine continues to shine despite her health challenges, and we’re monitoring her closely for signs of Cushing’s disease while providing extra care. Meanwhile, Ritz is thriving thanks to his extra groceries, and Moon dazzles new volunteers with her charm.

Even in the colder months, the AHH community perseveres. Volunteers like Jenna, Ingrid, and Sofie bring warmth and dedication, keeping the herd thriving no matter the weather. This shared connection fosters resilience, growth, and joy for both humans and horses.

🌻 A Huge Honor: Sunflower Project Recipient

We’re thrilled to announce that AHH has been selected as a recipient of the Sunflower Project! Chosen from an incredible pool of nonprofits, this partnership provides pro bono marketing services to elevate our mission. A heartfelt thank you to Kristin Beltaos and the Sunflower Project team for their belief in our vision!

🧘‍♀️ Keeping It in the Family: Heart Glow Wellness

Exciting news from Brittney Martin, our Yoga with Horses instructor and Executive Board Member! Brittney has launched her new wellness brand, Heart Glow Wellness, offering yoga classes in her Hopkins studio alongside horse yoga, sound baths, and Reiki sessions at AHH. We’re so proud of Brittney’s new venture and can’t wait to see it shine!

📸 Celebrating Artistic Talent: Kristin Lebben’s Exhibit

Our talented photographer and Founding Executive Board Member, Kristin Lebben, will showcase her stunning sculptures in the exhibition Body Language: Sculptural Interpretations of the Human Form in St. Paul, MN. The opening is on January 24, and I’ll be attending—join me in celebrating Kristin’s inspiring work!

💫 Welcoming Shavonne Edison to the Team

We’re excited to introduce Shavonne Edison as the newest member of our Executive Board! Shavonne brings incredible energy and expertise, and we’re so grateful to have her as part of the AHH family as we continue to grow.

🐴 Winter Challenges, New Opportunities

Winter presents its own challenges for the herd, but we’re ready to adapt. From cozy blankets and extra feed to innovative programs like snow-yoga, painting classes, and half-day retreats, we’re embracing the season while creating new ways to connect with our community.

🛒 Everyday Ways to Support AHH

Did you know your everyday shopping can support AHH? We’re excited to join the Target Giving Circle and are working to become an Amazon Smile member. Many of our volunteers have also discovered that their employers match donations or volunteer time. If you have connections or partnership opportunities, please reach out! Every bit of support helps us continue our mission.

2025 is shaping up to be a year of healing, creativity, and collaboration at Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats. Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, let’s make this year unforgettable—for humans and horses alike!

Warm wishes,

Anne Krocak Executive Director, Art, Heart, and Hoofbeats