About Us
Grace Therapeutic Riding
When you hear the founder, Allison, tell the story of Grace, you will often hear her say, “It’s God’s program. We are just grateful He brought us along for the ride.” Allison’s love and appreciation of horses spans her lifetime, and she shared that love with her Dad, the late Bob Vermeer. A number of years ago, God put it on Allison’s heart to use animals to help people. She started her journey with the family dog Klondyke, but the question of how horses could be involved always lingered in the back of her mind. After two failed therapy dog certifications, Allison decided to change course to horses. The first equine assisted service she heard of was hippotherapy through a church connection whose child has various diagnoses and had researched the service. God brought all the pieces together for Grace TR in 2019 through an early collaboration with Kinetic Edge Physical Therapy, her generous Dad allowing use of his horses, a gracious boarding situation at Windy Acres, the inspiration of a special little lady, and the grace of God. Allison was blessed to start Grace TR with her Dad, and carry forward his legacy of caring for others.

The vision of Grace TR is to enrich lives through equine-assisted activities with a mission to empower people and horses to become who God created them to be and do His work. Grace TR started with two horses, one equine assisted service, and approximately ten volunteers. Bob and Lois Vermeer ignited the opportunity for Grace TR to grow by investing in an arena dedicated to therapeutic services. The mission of Grace TR brought together Bob’s passion for horses and caring heart for others. In 2020, the herd and operation moved to their current location that is dedicated to helping people through horses. Today Grace TR serves at least 25 participants per week with nine therapy horses and over 40 volunteers.

Our Mission
Enriching Lives through Equine-Assisted Services
