our story

Brent Glover founded Orphan Acres in 1975. Since then, the organization has provided a safe haven for thousands of equines. Some only stay with us for a short time and are adopted out to loving forever homes. Others, due to illness, injury, or other special needs are given a place in our pasture to enjoy a comfortable retirement. 

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Orphan Acres is a 501(c)(3) non-profit equine rescue facility in Viola, Idaho. We are one of the oldest horse rescues in the country. Our organization is entirely run by volunteers and funded by donations. Andy Zimmerman, President and General Manager, of Orphan Acres has recently been elected the roll form VP in 2023. He has been a part of Orphan Acres since 2017, starting as our farrier and still is today. Although many of you know Brent Glover as the face of Orphan Acres, he has had to step away due to health reasons, but is still there for any questions that may arise.

We take in and rehabilitate animals whose owners are no longer willing or able to care for them. Today, we operate at around 40+ horses on the property at any time. Since we opened our doors in 1975, over ­4270 horses have come through our facility, 3530 of which have moved on to loving homes. Over the years, we have nursed hundreds of horses back to proper health and proudly watched them flourish in their new lives. Any horse that requires long-term care is placed in our permanent herd and allowed to live out its retirement comfortably at the rescue. If you ever find yourself wanting to help, New volunteers are always welcome, no matter their level of horse experience.


Horses give back to you. They know you are trying to help them. It’s all for the satisfaction of seeing the animals happy, no longer being abused or neglected.
— Brent Glover, Former President and Founder of Orphan Acres
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We want your help!