Grace Under the Oaks (GUTO) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides adaptive riding and equine-assisted activities for adults and children with cognitive or physical challenges. The nonprofit recently relocated to a new home, Still Waters Farm. There, it will continue its adaptive riding program and equine-assisted learning workshops, Grace Fosters Grace.
Adaptive riding provides the opportunity for individuals to participate in recreational riding. It is not therapy but is led by PATH Intl. Certified Riding Instructors. GUTO’s adaptive riding program allows riders to make connections with horses, grow in confidence, improve core strength and problem solving.
“GUTO’s unique and supportive approach allows them to meet participants where they are and help them grow into the best equestrian they can be,” said Jennifer Lang, executive director and a certified PATH Intl. Certified Riding Instructor. “This growth looks different for each participant,” Lang stated, “but we are here to encourage every step, because building confidence in the saddle can translate to growth in other areas of life as well.”
GUTO’s other program, Grace Fosters Grace, seeks to support foster and adoptive caregivers as they embark on a new journey. Lang explained that while fostering is a beautiful thing, it can be difficult and is often more challenging than caregivers initially expect. The equine-assisted program will help caregivers improve their communication skills by giving them the opportunity to work with horses, who respond to trauma similarly to how people do. Caregivers will be able to share their stories with others and become part of a supportive community while enjoying being outside in nature.
The horses in the program are well-trained and have unique personalities. Radical has been with the program since 2018 and used to be a trail horse. He is known for his funny faces and sensitive-but-sweet personality. Lily is an adorable mini horse who loves to have her mane braided by the youngest riders. She enjoys making visits to Ronald McDonald House and schools. Gidget is sassy, but dutiful. She loves working with the little kids. Zane is very curious and loves people. He is the youngest horse in the program at 6 years old. Buckaroo is the newest addition to the program. He used to be a mounted shooting horse and has a calming presence.
Grace Under the Oaks celebrated its open house on the first weekend of March and will resume both programs again in April. Lang said that she and the team want to be able to expand their Grace Fosters Grace program to first responders and are looking for more foster and adaptive opportunities.
On May 2, the program will hold its annual fundraiser, The Race for Grace, at St. Johns Golf and Country Club. The event will be a fun and festive afternoon celebrating the 152 annual Kentucky Derby. There will be live music, a live auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres, mint juleps and a viewing of the derby. It will be a memorable event to support an incredible program. Tickets are on sale now. To learn more, go to https://www.graceundertheoaks.org/grace-events.
