About Our Founder

Impact Horse, founded by Hayley Holzhacker in August 2022, bridges the gap between communities and nature through the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy. Born from a deep-rooted passion for animals and a lifelong journey with horses, Impact Horse aims to make the healing benefits of horse-human connections accessible to all. Through equine-assisted activities, Impact Horse focuses on fostering meaningful interactions that promote wellness, mindfulness, and a deepened understanding of animal behavior.

Hayley, an avid equestrian with a rich background in animal welfare, education, and psychology, has dedicated her academic and professional journey to exploring and advocating for the therapeutic potential of equines. Her expertise, coupled with her studies in Non-Profit Management at Johns Hopkins University, underpins Impact Horse’s mission. Situated in Southern Maine, Impact Horse is not just about creating opportunities for equine learning; it’s about nurturing the innate bond between humans and horses, aiming to enrich lives and communities through the unique insights and joy these magnificent creatures offer.

Impact Horse was created as part of Hayley’s Graduate Capstone Project and corresponding 46-page research paper at Johns Hopkins University studying the evolution of the connection between horses and humans, along with the therapeutic benefits of equine-human interactions.

For her undergraduate studies, Hayley earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology at the College of St. Elizabeth in Morristown, New Jersey. 

She graduated Cum Laude in May 2018. Hayley served as a horse leader, handler, and volunteer for a therapeutic riding program in New Jersey throughout college. She is an active community member and contributes to animal shelters and equine rescues. Hayley is located in Southern Maine.

< “Toast” is a therapy-trained miniature horse registered and qualified with the American Miniature Therapy Horse Association (AMTHA).

Hayley Holzhacker with her Thoroughbred mare,   Layla. >

                              Education & Psychology Interests

Before pursuing an M.A in Non-governmental organization (nonprofit) Management, Hayley completed a full year of Clinical Counseling Graduate Credits at Centenary University in Hackettstown, NJ. She also completed 250 clinical hours at a private counseling practice in New Jersey. 

The future is bright, and Impact Horse is making strides as a small but mighty nonprofit. 

Our mini mascot, “Toast,” is a therapy-trained miniature horse registered with the American Miniature Therapy Horse Association. “Muffin” is our newest addition to the team and is a therapy mini in training.