Every meaningful journey begins with a story. Ours began long before Bits of Faith was ever imagined. Growing up, horses were more than animals—they were teachers, companions, and a source of peace. They taught us patience, responsibility, resilience, and the quiet power of trust. That lifelong love of horses shaped who we are and planted the seeds for what would one day become Bits of Faith.

Although our paths took us in different directions, they were always connected by a shared belief in the healing power of horses.

Melinda devoted many years to serving a therapeutic riding organization serving children and adults with special needs. First as a volunteer, then as a board member, and eventually as a certified riding instructor. Through that work, she witnessed firsthand the remarkable ability of horses to help people overcome physical, emotional, and neurological challenges. Time and again, she saw confidence replace fear, hope replace uncertainty, and healing begin through the simple act of connecting with a horse.

Amanda’s passion led her to North Carolina, where she led a nonprofit that provided in-hand equine-assisted activities for children in the foster care system. She experienced the profound impact that simply grooming, leading, and quietly connecting with a horse could have on children who had experienced trauma, loss, and uncertainty. Those moments reinforced the belief that healing doesn’t always happen from the saddle—often it begins with a gentle touch, a quiet presence, and the trust formed between horse and human.

Together, these experiences revealed a common truth: horses have an extraordinary ability to meet people exactly where they are, offering comfort, connection, and healing in ways that words often cannot.

While our experiences were different, they shared a common purpose—to witness the remarkable bond between horses and people and the hope that bond can restore. Yet one group remained close to our hearts.

Our nation’s veterans have dedicated themselves to protecting the freedoms we cherish. Many return home carrying wounds that cannot be seen—physical injuries, emotional trauma, or the lasting effects of military service. Within our own family, we have proudly watched loved ones answer the call to serve our country, and we continue to witness that same commitment to service through a family member serving in law enforcement. These experiences deepened our appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others and inspired us to create a place designed especially for them.

We never wanted to duplicate the incredible work already being done for individuals with special needs. Instead, we envisioned something that would complement those efforts by opening the healing power of horses to another deserving population.

At the same time, countless horses face uncertain futures because of abuse, neglect, injury, abandonment, or circumstances beyond their control. Like many veterans, these horses often carry invisible scars and must learn to trust again. We believe there is something profoundly meaningful when two lives, each searching for healing, come together.

At Bits of Faith, rescued horses are given the opportunity to recover through compassionate care, rehabilitation, and patient training. Veterans are invited to build relationships with these horses through grooming, groundwork, and quiet companionship. No expectations. No judgment. Just time, trust, and the opportunity for healing to unfold naturally.

Bits of Faith proudly bears the name The John E. Matthews Equine Foundation in honor of John Emerson Matthews VI, whose extraordinary generosity and unwavering belief made this dream possible. His financial support provided the foundation upon which this sanctuary now stands.

For six generations, the name John E. Matthews has represented family, commitment, and integrity. While John has no children of his own to carry the family name forward, we hope this foundation will serve as a lasting tribute—not only to his legacy, but also to that of our father, John E. Matthews V. Through every horse rescued, every veteran welcomed, and every life touched, their legacy of compassion, generosity, and service will continue for generations to come.

Bits of Faith is more than a horse rescue.

It is more than a veteran’s program.

It is a place where broken trust can be restored, hope can be renewed, and healing can begin—one horse, one person, and one act of faith at a time.