“The Peaceful Acres Horses (PAH) Buddy Program is more than just an opportunity to connect with a horse—it’s a life-changing experience rooted in compassion, growth, and authentic connection. For anyone who has dreamed of having their own horse, this program turns that dream into a meaningful reality, for a fraction of the cost of owning a horse. Once you become an active volunteer, you’re invited to join the Buddy Program, where you’re thoughtfully paired with a rescue horse to build a personal and healing partnership.

What makes the Buddy Program truly exceptional is the leadership of Nanci Beyerl, PAH’s founder. With decades of experience working with horses and a deep understanding of the emotional intelligence they offer, Nanci brings wisdom,and heart to everything she does. She leads the Monthly Buddy Classes, which go far beyond horse care basics. These sessions offer hands-on learning in grooming, groundwork, and understanding horse behavior—but also delve into the emotional and spiritual bond between horse and human. Nanci helps you see how your energy, emotions, and mindset affect your interactions with your horse—and how that awareness can guide you in your own life.

Each class is a chance to not only learn from an expert, but to reflect and grow. Nanci’s insightful guidance helps you deepen your connection with your Buddy Horse, creating a space where both human and animal can heal, trust, and thrive.

Being part of the Buddy Program also means joining a supportive community of fellow horse lovers and advocates. You build relationships not only with your horse, but with other members who share your passion and purpose. You also gain access to the peaceful and welcoming PAH facilities, where time slows down and the focus shifts to presence, care, and connection.

For someone like me, who has always wanted a horse of my own, this program has been nothing short of magical. I finally have —a horse—and every moment we spend together affirms that we were meant to find each other. Through the Buddy Program, I’ve learned how to care for her, how to listen to her, and how to grow alongside her—with Nanci’s wisdom guiding us every step of the way.

 

Peaceful Acres Horses isn’t just a rescue—it’s a sanctuary for horses and for the people who love them. The Buddy Program, under Nanci’s expert leadership, is a gift to anyone ready to open their heart and experience the kind of connection that stays with you for a lifetime.”

“When Nanci speaks of her purpose it resonates with me because through her organization and her I found myself. Six years ago I was put in touch with Peaceful acres and came to a volunteer orientation. I had no idea how much it would change my life. I’d never worked around horses, only ridden inconsistently. The weather that day was dreary, ice covering everything and cold, bitter cold. I had a moment of fear and regret and I am so thankful I shook it off and walked into the cabin. 

I was looking for that horse therapy and something to satisfy my love of volunteering. What I found was myself. I found what makes me tick.
Since volunteering I’ve made some wonderful connections with people, I’ve witnessed both the joys of rescue and the heartache that exists. More importantly I’ve learned how to navigate situations in my own life because of the therapy and the outlet that being with horses and the donkeys too provides.
Looking back on the last six years the horses and all the rescues at Peaceful Acres along with Nanci and her small menagerie have left a huge positive impression on me. I’m stronger, I’m happier and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished.
Whether you need to get with nature, or want to learn some horse handling, volunteering at Peaceful acres is going to deliver. It’s a thrill to watch the rescues learn to trust again, or heal. It’s an even greater joy to earn their love and watch them work their magic. Animals heal us, they healed my shoulder, and fixed my heart issues. Science backs this, however having experienced it first hand is quite exhilarating.
I look forward to my days out there no matter the weather because each time I leave I feel so at peace and unencumbered. There’s nothing more rewarding and it’s become my purpose too.” -E.S