Graceful Acres, an Equine Assisted Therapy Program located in Halifax, is inviting the community to support its mission through an online fundraiser in partnership with Country Meats. Proceeds from the fundraiser will directly benefit Graceful Acres’ scholarship fund, helping ensure access to therapeutic riding for students facing financial hardship.

The scholarship fund plays a critical role in removing financial barriers for riders who are eager to learn, heal, and grow through interactions with horses. Many participating families are managing significant medical expenses, and the fund ensures that cost is never an obstacle to receiving therapeutic riding services. Currently, 15 riders rely on scholarship support to participate in Graceful Acres’ programs.

Graceful Acres is dedicated to helping individuals with extraordinary needs heal through the horse, using the principles of natural horsemanship to foster confidence, connection, and physical and emotional well-being. Community support through this fundraiser will help sustain and expand access to these life-changing experiences.

Founded by Jon Mattis, Graceful Acres began as a dream rooted in family and service. Jon launched the program on the family farm, inspired by his grandmother Grace and her remarkable ability to spread kindness and compassion. In her honor, the program carries her name and legacy forward through meaningful community impact. Since its inception, Graceful Acres has been recognized for its contributions to the region, including receiving the Jefferson Award in 2019. As part of that recognition, Jon shared the story of the program and the extraordinary athletes served through Graceful Acres’ therapeutic riding instruction.

Community members are encouraged to support the fundraiser and help ensure that healing through the horse remains accessible to all who need it: Order Online Fundraising | Country Meats Fundraising