The Courtney Grimshaw Equine Assisted Services Initiative, known as Courtney Cares, based at the Texas A&M Institute for Equine Sciences, provides equine-assisted programs to support children, veterans, and adults facing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges. The program has demonstrated clear benefits, such as improved confidence, reduced anxiety, and strengthened social connections, particularly among veterans. It also offers valuable hands-on experience for Texas A&M students pursuing careers in healthcare and biomedical sciences, emphasizing individualized care and research best practices.

Courtney Cares is actively involved in interdisciplinary research exploring the therapeutic effects of equine-assisted services on conditions like cerebral palsy, PTSD, and Parkinson’s disease. Since its founding in 2012 through a family donation, the program has served over 155 families and engaged hundreds of volunteers and students. With ongoing support and collaboration across Texas A&M departments, Courtney Cares aims to expand its impact and establish equine-assisted therapy as a mainstream treatment option. Donor contributions remain vital to sustaining and growing the initiative’s reach and research efforts.