Red Heart Horse, a local 501(c)(3) retirement, rehabilitation, and rescue organization based at Sunny Brook Stables in East Cobb, has officially launched a fundraising campaign to purchase permanent prop erty that will serve as a safe, forever home for retired, rehabilitated, and rescued horses in the community. The campaign is being hosted through Zeffy, a nonprofit fundraising platform that allows 100 percent of donations to go directly to the rescue, with tax receipts provided immediately upon donation.
Founded by Dr. Grania Gothard Holman, Red Heart Horse grew from years of hands-on experience caring for senior and special-needs horses. Dr. Holman is the owner and operator of Sunny Brook Stables, located at 4580 Roswell Road in East Cobb, an equestrian facility known for its emphasis on education, horsemanship, and com passionate care. Over time, she recognized a growing need for a permanent solution for aging, injured, and rescued horses—many of whom face uncertain futures due to medical or physical limitations. Red Heart Horse was created to ensure these horses could live out their natural lives with dignity, safety, and purpose.
“Having our own property means stability,” said Alicia Luechtefeld, Social Media and Outreach Coordinator for Red Heart Horse. “It allows us to focus every dollar and every moment on the horses—without worrying about relocation or limited space. This cam paign is about building a future where every horse has a safe place to land.”
Currently operating out of Sunny Brook Stables, Red Heart Horse provides daily care, medical oversight, and individualized support to its herd. Among its residents is River, a fully blind rescue horse saved from slaughter who now lives a peaceful life with daily medication and the devoted companionship of Cactus, a guardian donkey rescued through Jack of Trades Donkey Rescue. Other horses include Kitty Two Socks, a retired racehorse whose extraordinary medical journey helped inspire the founding of the organization, and Holly, a semi-retired American Paint Horse who continues to serve as a trusted teacher for students while managing multiple chronic conditions.
Securing permanent property will allow Red Heart Horse to expand its capacity, reduce long-term oper ating costs, and eliminate the uncertainty that comes with leasing space. Funds raised through the campaign will be used to purchase suitable land for horse care and rehabilitation, install safe fencing and pasture sys tems, build shelters and storage structures, and establish essential utilities and infrastructure. The organization has committed to full transparency, providing updates as milestones are reached.
Beyond rescue and rehabilitation, Red Heart Horse’s mission includes creating meaningful connections between horses and people. Through programming at Sunny Brook Stables, the organization offers educational, emotional, and service-based opportunities that serve children, seniors, veterans, and families throughout East Cobb—demonstrating the healing power of horses and the importance of compassionate stewardship.
Community members can support the campaign by donating, sharing the fundraiser, or becoming monthly supporters. Donations can be made online through Zeffy at zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/help-red-heart-horse 501c3-secure-a-forever-property.
