While there is a need for this type of rescue, this organization no longer serves the best interests of the off-the-track-thoroughbred community. They do not have the expertise nor labor to do an adequate job for these horses.
Went here to volunteer and they were instantly welcoming and friendly, I now help out every week and have got some great friendships because of them!
HART is an outstanding non- profit that helps not only retired Thoroughbred racehorses and other equines in need, but it also is a place of peace, hope and encouragement for many families. For me personally, HART is my happy place, a place where I go to help animals in need and to help kids that maybe don't have the best time at home or school but can come there and learn that they have strength and courage inside them and that HART is an accepting, caring place where they can grow and develop along with the beautiful horses. HART provides a much needed service for the Thoroughbred race industry as many of these equine athletes get injured while racing and then are discarded, but are still young and have there while loves ahead of them. HART gives them a place to heal, learn to love and trust, and get thought to be a different kind of athlete allowing them to find forever homes. This type of care takes a lot of people and time and HART is incredible in it's capacity to be able to provide the structure to make such an effective program. I am grateful to be a part of HART!
I have had the distinct pleasure of working with the people and horses at HART. This family comes together to rally for the horses, give people the opportunity of a life time and celebrate both. Such a pleasure to be a part!
Previous Stories
You just never know where life is going to take you! I have found a second home at HART! Not only am I surrounded by fabulous people but these people share my love of horses! I have been a volunteer at HART for several months now and I have witnessed the true foundation of the human spirit! This organization has a true desire to help horses in need. I have seen the rehabilitation happening first hand! From the second chance surgery for one of the horses to simple love and consistent care of a starving pony. This is where I belong and is a great place for any horse lover to spend their time!
I am so impressed by this organization and their care, and knowledge of these amazing animals. Great people!!
We love Hart. We've been apart of Harr for a year so far. It is great. Our horses love being there. They are taken care of by a well trained, profressional and loving group of people.
I have been volunteering at HART for many years and in many capacities. I have also boarded my horses there. What impresses me the most is the dedication of all the people involved who work together to help the horses and the community they serve. You may think you are coming to help save horses, but you will quickly learn that you gain as much as you give, or more! Highly recommend!
Previous Stories
I support HART because I am concerned about the fate of retired race horses and also local abused or neglected horses. HART's programs also benefit people in our community and I like the circular concept of people helping horses and horses helping people. I am familiar with HART's operation and I can see my support in action. I also donate to HART because my money stays in my community and the money goes directly to the charity which is primarily run by volunteers.
I have been part of HART since 11/2015. On a daily basis, the dedication and fortitude of our volunteers impresses me.
HART is committed to providing Off the Track Thoroughbreds with the best care and preparation for a future career and loving home.
I am proud and honored to be a part of this organization.
Horses have always been my passion. They are my escape. We obtained an off the track thoroughbred and I experienced what a wonderful, hardworking breed they are and all I can say is they have Heart. I became a member of the board of Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART) because I love this breed and see such value and honor in taking these retired horses and training them for new careers and finding them homes where they can continue to show how much heart they have. HART is such and important organization in expanding the human animal bond.
Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART) is a great organization for learning how to care of horses as well as take riding lessons with the whole family. All my three teenage children (and myself) are volunteering weekly to learn not only horse care skills, but also important life lessons, and we are learning to ride. The barn is well taken care of and the additional cats and dogs are a great treat for the kids to play with. The organization is aptly named HARTforhorses.org and its location in Cocoa, FL allows for rocket launch viewing as a bonus!
hello! I am a volunteer at Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART). I'm retired from a busy business and HART has been perfect for me! there is lots to learn, even though I had horses as a child.
The Rescue part of HART is such an education. There is a great inclusive attitude at HART. They want you to learn more about horses. Several of the people there have purchased their horse partner from HART. Man it is such a privilege to get to see those partnerships grow, because they stay right there with us in the board barn!
there is a wealth of knowledge and experience in our personnel _ trainers, lessons, barn mgr, owners and even our Board!
I have been there about 3 years and it just keeps getting better. I have watched young girls become such good horsewomen, even at young ages. Building their confidence in general and specifically.
Like all or maybe most all non-profits there is the constant financial need. Lord knows horses are not inexpensive to keep and maintain. I have been impressed by how funds are used at HART. I donate sometimes and if you are looking for a place to make a real difference _ HART is at the top of any list I can imagine.
I LOVE HART!!
I boarded my horse at HART for a year. I was very pleased with the staff and care here. Only reason I left was due to moving and distance. Thank you for all your loving care my Fosse!
I've spent hundreds of hours volunteering for HART. I found a community of people who care deeply about the work they do in service of both horses and humans. They work tirelessly to better the lives of the horses in their care and welcome volunteers of all experience levels.
HART is amazing! Everyone is so welcoming and kind. We are having a wonderful boarding experience. The trainers are awesome too and the volunteers are incredibly dedicated!
I love volunteering at HART. There is a heart transaction from each of the volunteers with the horses – so not only are they physically cared for, but they are loved back to health. Horses are magical… I’m not sure who rescues who.
The veterinarians and ancillary equine therapies are fantastic.
I appreciate the thorough application process to ensure a good home as well as a comprehensive history provided with the horse. Animal rescue and rehab is solving a crisis. You could be their greatest hope for a chance of a loving home or a second career.
HART is an amazing rescue, boarding, and training equine facility! Our horse receives wonderful care and is very happy boarding here. We also love the supportive atmosphere and on-site lesson program!
Great organization with wonderful horses and people! It is very clear their primary focus is finding wonderful homes for the OTTB’s. Definitely encourage others to volunteer and adopt!
Volunteering at HART is a very rewarding experience. A lot of dedication goes into each rescued horse. It is so wonderful to see them find forever homes, although it is a little difficult to not feel attached to each and every one! HART has a huge part of my heart.
What a wonderful gem we have found here in Cocoa, Florida! Our family just moved to the area and we were interested in riding lessons for our three daughters ages 11, 9 and 6. We thought we'd try out all the horse farms in the area since there are many and then choose one to stick with...but we only went to one farm--HART--and no longer want to look around since we found what we were looking for on the very first try! Each of our girls have taken the initial evaluation lesson and we were so impressed by it all. The people at HART are so warm and welcoming, as well as knowledgeable and caring.
For the lessons, our daughters were involved from start to finish--from getting the tack to grooming the horse to leading the horse, etc. It was a lot more than just a riding lesson! Their instructors were extremely encouraging and the girls felt comfortable with them right away. This is so important because I noticed that all of the positive comments from the instructors resulted in eliminating frustration on the part of our daughters when they couldn't "get" something and had to keep trying. Our 6 year old had her lesson on her birthday, and the staff at HART made it truly unforgettable by dressing the pony as a unicorn!! It was her dream come true!!! It feels great that the money we spend on lessons goes toward supporting the rescued horses, too!
Our family is so eager to become involved at HART now; we have signed up for volunteer roles there so we can do our part to help this beautiful place and all the beautiful rescued horses there. We feel so fortunate to have found such an extraordinary place!
HART has truly made a huge impact in my life. There is nothing like seeing horses come to HART and just flourish.
I had the pleasure of touring the HART facility in January, 2020, and knew immediately that I wanted to support this very professional organization. As a lifelong owner of retired racing Thoroughbreds, I love the breed and am grateful that places like HART exist to retrain and rehabilitate these amazing horses so they can find new homes and make their owners as happy as mine have made me.
I could see how well the horses were cared for and was also impressed by the many volunteers I met and the various projects they’ve undertaken to improve the facility. The person conducting my tour knew all of the horses by name and was able to tell me about their personalities and history. (While HART focuses on rescuing Thoroughbreds, there were also other horses in their care, including some adorable Minis that help the organization with outreach. ) Overall, I came away with a deep appreciation for the amount of effort and expense required to run an equine rescue of this caliber and am proud to support HART’s efforts on behalf of retired racehorses.
My visits to Hart and getting to know the volunteers and workers confirms that this is the best run, most caring and efficient horse rescue I have ever seen. I am happy to know what I am able to donate to them is used wisely for these magnificent animals.
We found HART about a year and a half ago while searching for a horse for my daughter. We knew we were in the right place from our very first visit. They were able to find the perfect match for her. We’ve been boarding there ever since. I can’t say enough about everyone there. It truly is like a family.
I had horses growing up and have been away from them for 24 years due to military service...I decided to reach out and volunteer with this Rescue and am so glad I did. It not only brought back so many fond memories, but it has filled a void of being around horses again and helping out an organization that is so caring and has the experience and network to get these beautiful horses retrained and rehomed for a second chance. I have also adopted one of their OTTBs and am boarding him at HART; so both as a volunteer and as a boarder, they definitely earn these 5 stars!
I was looking for a summer camp that went beyond mere horseback riding. I was not disappointed with HART. Not only did they offer crafts that appealed to my daughter's creativity, they also taught basic horsemanship skills. My daughter loved this the most. She also enjoyed making new friends.
I liked the idea where they taught responsibility in taking care of the horses and equipment. My daughter understands-better the necessity of caring for something so the fun-part can be experienced. I will definitely be sending her to HART camp again!
Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART) is such an outstanding organization!!! HART not only helps the horses that come off the racetrack by giving them new jobs and new homes with people who Love them. HART helps the community and gives back by being a safe place for children to learn about horses, attend camps and receive lessons, and most improtantly a volunteer opportunity that connects the community and families! Love Team HART!!!
Three years ago my family passed away. I was primary caregiver to them. I was not only devistated by the loss of loved ones , I felt i had no purpose . One of my best friends is a volunteer at HART . I have seen her come home from working the horses dirty , tired and sometimes a little stinky , but with a smile on her face , a twinkle in her eye and a glow about her that could light up Times Square during a blackout ! She asked me to help her one day at the farm . Watching the energy and harmony of the people there and the beauty of the horses got me hooked . I fell in love with "Rocco" , a 2 wear old horse with a club foot. His mother died during his birth due to malnutrition . He was up for adoption . I adopted him . Now he has a mother " actually a daddy " and i have a purpose . I don't get to see him as often as i want but when i do .... I glow.....
I have been volunteering at Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds for a year and a half now. All of the horses get wonderful care and the recues are rehabilitated for adoption. It is volunteer run and everyone works together to make things run smoothly.
I LOV HART!!!
Good people who really care about these horses. Also gives my husband and I who are snowbirds the opportunity to still work with horses while we are away from Alberta.
Upon arriving at hidden acres, the property is everything you would want a horse ranch to be. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the day to day norm, you find a well kept, clean barn, and stables, with plenty of room for grooming, feeding, and the essentials. The property is large, well groomed, clean and kept up. Large paddock’s for the Horses to roam and play. A training ring, and a beautiful riding area for lessons, and skill building for both the rider, and the horses. All of this you would expect of a location, and organization of this caliber! Here’s the part you don’t expect, and what makes HART stand out from all the rest...
The overall vibe of the place is warm, and welcoming, filled with positive energy. The staff is incredible to say the least. There energy and love for what they do, the passion for the horses and excitement for the cause is literally infectious. The volunteers at HART are extremely welcoming, eager to learn, excited to pass on there newly acquired knowledge, and just overall Awesome! This is what speaks volumes for the entire group that work, and organize the day to day schedule of the operation!
After all that I guess I could have simply said, “I recommend HART”, but that would have been easy, and simple. The importance of this organization, its staff, volunteers and its cause isn’t simple or easy, its vitality important!
HART is a fantastic organization with an even better mission. My family and I volunteer at HART because we believe in and support their goals of finding a second career and a new home for off the track thoroughbreds and educating the public about the healing power horses have to share. My children also take lessons and have learned so much more than just how to ride a horse. They have become strong and responsible young ladies and are more confident in themselves. We are so glad to be a part of the HART family.
I can’t say enough about HART. The rewarding experience of caring for these Thoroughbreds goes beyond feeding, mucking stalls or maintenance of the ranch, it’s seeing a horse thrive in an environment that they feel safe, cared for and loved. It’s that transformation that gives you hope and joy when you are around them, no matter what you are doing. It’s therapeutic to be one with the horses, watch them thrive again and know you had a hand in helping them. The friendships that develop with like minded individuals is an added bonus. Volunteer work is wonderful no matter where or how you do it, but for me HART has the biggest spot in my heart!
I have been a volunteer for this organization for 4 years now. I left to get my Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator certificate for a little while. I became involved with a rescued horse at the age of 2 1/2 yrs old. She came to this rescue due to a slab Fracture to her front knee while practicing for racing. The vets had determined that she would only be a pasture horse with no riding capabilities. After working with her for nearly 4 yrs now she has fought for her life, colicking to the point where the vet gave her a slim chance of getting through it, to understanding that the human touch was a good thing and she could trust us humans again. She has worked beside me for children of Autism, in the EAL program and now training new riders and also can do trail rides. Without this organization she would never had succeeded. She is just one story of success that this organization has processed. Her name is Jessie, track name Dontlookdown. Please follow her and all the other horses that we find forever homes
Previous Stories
I have volunteered at Hart since last November. I have witnessed the Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) come off the track and no nothing but run. They have missed out on the love that includes not only water and food, but hands on grooming and a real relationship with humans. I've also been lucky enough to help train and see results how quickly these horses not only learn a new career but how they excel with just a little bit of LOVE. The transformation from a shy unsure horse to a disciplined Jumper, Dressage or Trail rider is unbelievable to witness. I am so proud to be part of this wonderful Organization that started from a dream and now every day we rescue, rehabilitate these magnificant horses to find their forever homes.
You could say I started at HART from the bottom up. My son and I mucked stalls twice a week through the summer of 2014. I had to stop for an injury but missed the horses. I came back to smell that smell and asked if there was some light work I could do. They needed somebody to take pictures of the rescues for adoption ads. I was hooked. I loved photography. Two cameras later and 4 1/2 years at HART, I not only still do their photography but am actively volunteering with fundraising and marketing on all levels. Two and a half years ago, I started my own equine photography business and am the official photographer for horse shows. I really love what I do but I have never forgotten that HART gave me an opportunity to grow and learn. I am committed to getting the best portraits for our fur babies because they deserve to be noticed and admired. My goal is that each horse gets their forever dream home because somebody first saw them through a beautiful picture.
My grandaughter is going to camp. We fell in love with this place and the horses. The bad thing is, she would like to just stay and not go home
I started coming to HART as a way to stay involved in volunteerism, which has always been an important part of my life. After my boys graduated & left for law school & college respectively, I attended a very well run volunteer orientation and knew without a doubt, I would find a welcoming space here. The board members, managers, staff & corps of capable volunteers amaze me with the tender loving care they show these very deserving equines every day. The rescued thoroughbreds come in skinny, fearful, occasionally aggressive and so very needy. Through hard work and loving dedication, they all are rehabilitated with the express goal of being adopted into a loving, forever home. I can recommend HART as a wonderful place to volunteer, and feel sure there's a place for all who want the best experience with these magnificent creatures.
I share a back yard with the horses at HART. I have truly witnessed powerful healing over the years I have been involved with HART both horse and human. I have watched fearful adults transition to competent and loving horse handlers. I have witnessed young children test their own strength and courage, learning powerful life lessons while sharing time with their horses. I have watched young girls fall in love for the first time as they experience the very special bond one can have with a horse.
I fell off a horse and swore I would never ride again. I volunteered happily but never actually interacting with the horses. I now lease a horse that I have connected with in a way I never thought possible and just recently adopted an older GENTLEman that has become a very important member of our family. We are involved with our horses and it is truly a family activity. If you asked me what my life would look like years ago, I would have never thought it would Include horses. I consider myself truly blessed to be neighbors with HART and to have the time and opportunity to love on two wonderful beings from HART. I have volunteered at HART since 2013. They are my neighbors, my best friends, my Heart Community/Family. HART heals Hearts four and two legged varieties.
I was originally introduced to HART by a friend. I used to volunteer at a stable many years ago when I was a teenager, and I loved the interaction with the horses. Being such a long time ago I knew that most everything I had learned was long forgotten, but that wasn't a problem because HART volunteers go through an orientation and thorough training. The organization is extremely well run, and you can see everyone's love and dedication to the horses in everything they do. They always show their appreciation for the volunteers, and even as a newcomer I felt like part of a family.
My daughter absolutely loves horses and so we hooked up with HART's volunteer opportunities to teach her how to give of her time and enjoy the time with the horses at the same time. Volunteering time does not have to feel like getting a tooth pulled, and HART is proof of that! The horses are amazing to be around, and the people working the grounds are even better! It is so incredible to see such a great organization affecting a need in animals, but also a need in people to have a way to give of their time and love!
Ive been wirh HART coming on two years this May. I originally found HART through Facebook on a fluke, and actually thought it was fake, but I went anyways and I'm happy as hell to say it is not. Starting my journey at HART has brought me out of my shell, and given me a reason to get up on Sunday mornings. I used to go more but life has gotten ahead 0f me. Now I help in the adoptions posting and talking with potential adopters to help out in other ways. I have to say if it weren't for HART i wouldn't be returning to school either. I want to get my degree in Animal Sciences with a focus on Equine at the University of Florida, and it's all started because of them. I thank them from the bottom of my heart for becoming a place I can be at peace.
Previous Stories
I've only been with HART for about 2 months and it is the best place I have found that works to bring the community in to their fold. I felt appreciated the first day I went to orientation. I volunteer on the weekends but I will say they provide an outlet for my love of horses. Everyone there is so nice even those who board their horses on the premises are so appreciative of everything the volunteers do. I hope to be with this organization for as long as possible.
My daughter and myself have been involved with HART for almost 5 years. Love being part of a fantastic group of people.
Through HART we found a wonderful OTTB mare. Looking forward to a lifetime of enjoyment with her
I'm so impressed with the incredible work done by HART on behalf of Thoroughbreds. I work with South Florida SPCA Horse Rescue, and when we were over capacity a few years ago, they immediately stepped up to take three malnourished OTTBs that SFSPCA saved from cruel/abusive situations. In HART's care they flourished, one even competed in the Retired Racehorse Project's Thoroughbred Makeover Contest. Each were rehabilitated and expertly retrained for second careers, and rehomed with compassionate adopters, for which I'll be forever grateful. They are very supportive of other organizations, and SFSPCA is proud to be part of HART's village. Also impressive is their volunteer program and the many events they hold to educate the community and to fundraise. Hat's off to a phenomenal organization that makes a world of difference in the lives of horses, and the humans who love them!
HART is run by a small, dedicated group of individuals who work to re-train and re-home thoroughbreds who have finished their racing career. This allows these horses the opportunity to be placed in a caring environment as they transition out of the racing industry into their next career.
This group of dedicated volunteers is doing a great job rescuing thoroughbreds. The horses are well cared for and are doing well. A wonderful organization!
We adopted an OTTB for our granddaughter, the staff at HART took the time to ensure that Jadyn and Halo were a good fit before the adoption and have followed up to make sure that all is going well. Very impressed!
What awesome/positive things can I not say about HART? The lifesaving work they do year round to care for at-risk horses definitely does not go unnoticed. I wish I could do more to give them the recognition they deserve as they work tirelessly, day in and day out, to accomplish what they love to do. Not only does HART rescue, rehabilitate and rehome beautiful horses, the simple joy that is given back to the community is endless.
HART's equine therapy program enabled my daughter to smile once again and as a parent who had seen their child shine through their struggles, it was priceless!! How can I not be forever grateful to HART?
Hidden acres is a wonderful rescue, where the wellbeing of the horses is always top priority. I have adopted three horses from Hart, each adoption experience was wonderful. Suzi always takes the time to ensure the placement of each horse is a perfect match, for not only the horse but also the new owner. I can not say enough wonderful things about this organization. Thank you Hidden Acres for introducing and trusting me with my three wonderful horses.
I found my lovely gelding, Comrade, through Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds! Suzanne Norris and her team were so great in helping me make sure it was the perfect match for BOTH Comrade and myself! They do an incredible job of giving horses a great foundation and setting them up for success in their next careers. I can't say enough great things about HART and the work they do for our beloved Thoroughbreds!
Hidden Acres provides a safe haven for rescued Thoroughbreds. They are a wonderful non profit and always make visitors welcome. Keep up the great work!!
Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART) is a volunteer-driven organization whose primary focus is the rescue of Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) and retraining of these majestic animals for placement in forever homes. The passion of the HART Executive Director, staff, and volunteers is absolutely contagious. The work done by this organization and the drive and passion that they have for their work is what drew me to the organization in the first place. It is wonderful to be affiliated with an organization that is doing so much to help these beautiful creatures have a new life beyond the racetrack.
Hidden Acres has a wonderful team that takes the time to assess the medical needs and abilities of each rescue and help to place horses in homes that are the ideal fit for horse and rider.
My son volunteerd at HART for quite a while and he absolutely loved it! Everyone out there is wonderful and he learned so much! The transformations the horses go through from when HART rescues them to adoption is amazing! Every horse doesn't always show up knowing what love is, but they sure do shortly after arriving.
The kindest and most caring people you'll ever meet, who go above and beyond everyday for the horses that they care for.
My daughter began riding horses at HART in 2008, and we have been there ever since! Throughout all this time, HART has never wavered in its commitment to rescue and re-home off the track thoroughbreds. I am in awe of this organization and its many accomplishments! I'm proud to be part of this wonderful organization.
Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds is a sanctuary for humans and thoroughbreds alike, we rehabilitate what is physically weak and through the power of love, gain strength to rise over any obstacles life has challenged us with. The lovable connection between horse and human is stronger than ever at HART. To save a horse means that we save a spirit, a spirit that channels from horse to human that invigorates us in a positive, energetic circle of life. There's no better feeling in the world to see how resilient our rescues are to improvement. This progress is driven by four important letters of the alphabet.... L-O-V-E. I do not consider myself to be a volunteer. I consider myself to be a family member who gives care to the horses who I want to be healthy and strong for a new loving home.
There is so much I could say about this wonderful organization. You truly feel the heart of what every single person involved wants; how much they want to help not only the horses, but the people as well. I wasn't looking for much. After having given up on riding and deciding that I was no longer going to pursue the sport, I was discouraged to say the least. Two years later, I decided to give it another shot (I missed it too much)! I came across HART's website and dialed the number. When I went for a visit, I expected to just take a few lessons a month and that would be it. What I received was far more valuable. I was only with HART for a year, but learned so much in such a short amount of time. If there is any one thing I have taken away from my time there, it is that every single person can have a second chance. HART did that for me. The volunteers did that for me. The students did that for me. The horses did that for me. Not only so, I have learned that it is not just about me. As HART'S Founder and President, Suzanna Norris, once told me, "I am simply one part of a big process." We have the opportunity to create real change in this world. I believe that HART is doing that and more, one horse and person at a time. I am beyond privileged and honored to have been in the presence of some of the most genuine people one could ever meet. Truly, HART has propelled me forward to chase my dreams, save horses, and make a real difference in peopl'so lives.
I've been volunteering for over a year and have had the privilege of working alongside wonderful people with the biggest hearts helping to rehome these beautiful creatures. Hidden Acres made this possible for the 4 horses pictured as well as others and continues to care for many more on a daily basis that haven't found homes. The horses are given the best possible care and lots of love. Many need special care and everyone rallies to make sure this happens under the guidance of the owner and staff. Hidden Acres is truly a special place for man and beast.
I went to HART to take lessons and was asked to help by riding some of the rescues. One thing led to another and suddenly I had a horse of my own to fulfill a life long dream and a family of friends. Seeing this happen to many others and being a part of the team that rescues not just horses but people as well has been a huge blessing.
I initially started volunteering with HART for Horses over the summer in hopes to give my kids a new learning experience and an opportunity to give back to the community. Since school has started back I am there every chance I get. Volunteering at HART has been very rewarding seeing the horses flourish and the people that surround them.
HART has given me and so many people an opportunity we never had before -- a chance to help with the care of these beautiful horses, to get to know them, and to love them as if they are our own. The wonderful people at HART have been willing to help me learn and to be my best self. On top of that, we are helping these majestic animals to have a second chance at life, to heal, to grow and to find the forever home they deserve. We of Team HART are honored to feel the joy and peace of mind that comes to us in this magical place of horses and humans.
I began volunteering at HART in the summer of 2014 and instantly fell in love, not only because I had a passion for horses but I also enjoyed every moment I was there with the other volunteers. I made some great friends and had some good laughs! HART soon became a part of my family. Never had one bad experience while I was a part of the team :)