Hope Is Alive - And It Has Hooves

This is a story of one month's journey to find peace and healing for her son is turning into a movement

We’re honored to share that STAT® Inc. and our story of equine‑assisted healing have been featured in GivingTuesday’s impactful blog post: “Hope Is Alive, And It Has Hooves”. This moment marks more than just recognition—it’s a signal that our mission to serve vulnerable populations through horses is gaining traction, resonance, and a broader platform.

A little more about what this means

In the article, I (Cat Markosky, Founder & CEO of STAT®) share how a single fragile child, a chestnut horse named Rusty, and a determined mother’s vision grew into a trauma‑informed nonprofit that now serves thousands across Southwestern Pennsylvania. 

The piece also introduces #ReinInHope, a coalition campaign supported by GivingTuesday that brings together equine‑assisted programs from barns across the country to pool awareness, amplify impact, and harness the collective power of healing through horses. 

What’s especially meaningful is how this acknowledges that small organizations like ours—operating in a rural community, driven by heart rather than flashy budgets—can still step into big movements and collaboration. As I say in the piece: “When we rein in hope, we release healing.” 

With this feature, we’re not just sharing our story—we’re extending an invitation. To our supporters, donors, volunteers, fellow equine‑assisted practitioners: join us. Share the message. Use the hashtag. Be part of a movement that says: healing is possible, hope has hooves, and communities like ours matter.