OUR YEAR AT A GLANCE
2024 was a year marked by extraordinary transformation, connection, and joy. From weekly rides to special Veteran retreats, and from Stomping the Divots to the various community events, every moment brought smiles, growth, and new milestones for our participants.
VOTED BRONZE BEST NONPROFIT top 3 for 6th year in a row
As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with immense gratitude for the unwavering support and generosity you have shown to the Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding. Your commitment to our mission has been nothing short of inspiring, and we are thrilled to have you as part of our incredible community.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to empower, inspire, and enrich lives through Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies. Throughout the year, we have witnessed countless moments of healing, growth, and joy as our participants and their families connect with our wonderful, patient horses. Whether it’s a child taking their first ride or a Veteran finding solace in the saddle, every moment at JHTR is a testament to the resilience and strength of our participants.
Your support has been instrumental in making all of this possible. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to provide scholarships, adaptive riding programs, and the necessary care for our beloved herd of horses. Your contributions ensure that our programs continue to thrive and make a positive impact on individuals of all abilities.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited about the possibilities and the continued journey we will share together. Your dedication and kindness are the foundation upon which we build a brighter future for our community. I would be remiss if I didn’t extend an offer to you to come and witness what happens in the arena on a daily basis – it will warm your heart and inspire you to become a volunteer for Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding, a vital role that is NEEDED to keep this organization moving in the right direction and changing lives for the better!
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey and for believing in the transformative power of equine therapy. Together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of so many.
THANK YOU from the board thank you
SARAH BENINGA Board President
4 NEW INSTRUCTORS joined our team
67 NEW PARTICIPANTS engaged in our programs
22 NEW VOLUNTEERS supported our participants
4 NEW HORSES added to our herd
100% HORSE SPONSORSHIP
1,159 LESSONS facilitated by our Instructors
3 HORSE SHOWS & EVENTS for participants to display their newfound skills
59% OF PARTICIPANTS received scholarship assistance
TWO VETERANS WEEKENDS provided to servicemen and women from across the nation
10 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
participants ranged in age from 3 TO 95 YEARS OLD
A WEEK IN THE LIFE AT JACKSON HOLE THERAPEUTIC RIDING
At Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding, every week is filled with moments of joy, growth, and connection. It begins on Monday mornings when Mara and Lindsay (the equine team) arrive early, ready to start the day. They set out across town to gather our herd of horses from the various pastures where they’ve spent the weekend resting. Instructors are already busy filling water troughs and dragging the arenas, making sure everything is perfect for the day ahead. The crisp air fills with the sight of hot air balloons suspended against the backdrop of the Tetons, signaling the start of another special week.
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horse and instructor, they work to navigate these new difficulties, discovering resilience they didn’t know they had.
“ The connections that form between people and horses, and people themselves, are what make this place truly special.
This week, a group of Veterans will be spending the weekend with us. The two-day retreat is designed to offer Veterans the chance to connect with horses, confront their trauma, and find emotional healing. The bonds formed between horse and rider are as powerful as the personal breakthroughs that unfold. The arena becomes a safe space to confront their emotions head on so that they may move forward.
As the horses arrive back, refreshed from their time off, the energy builds. Soon, school buses filled with eager kids pull into the lot, volunteer cars line the buck rail fence, and the sound of laughter fills the air. A young boy, beaming from ear to ear, arrives with his walker, excited to start his lesson. After getting his helmet, he heads straight for the automatic lift, which helps him mount his horse safely. His instructor, Amber, and team of volunteers make the process fun, chatting with him about his Dragon Ball Z t-shirt — next week it will be a new cartoon or superhero. He teases his instructor and his giggles drift across the arena, making their way into my office as I write. It is a constant reminder of the joy this program brings to so many.
Sydney, our Volunteer Coordinator, welcomes new and returning volunteers with a warm smile, ensuring everyone feels at home. The connections that form between people and horses, and between people themselves, are what make this place truly special. The bonds built here go beyond just a lesson to become support systems that last a lifetime. There’s a magic that happens as fears are faced and overcome, replaced by joy and pride.
Later in the day, an older adult arrives, facing the very different challenge of a newfound disability that has come with aging. For them, it’s not just about learning to ride but finding new strength and purpose in a world that has changed. With the support of their
From week to week, many aspects appear similar- horses are transported to pasture, arenas are dragged, participants arrive, volunteers clock in. But every week also brings something different. New challenges arise, new goals are set, and new milestones are achieved. Whether it’s a participant conquering their fear or a team of volunteers rallying around to provide support when tears are shed, there’s always something remarkable happening.
None of this would be possible without the vast and caring community that supports us. Donors, volunteers, staff, our board of directors, and countless other supporters make all of these life-changing moments possible. It’s the collective compassion and selflessness of these individuals that ensure every participant — young or old, struggling with physical, behavioral, or emotional challenges — experiences the strength, connection, and empowerment that JHTR brings.
Thank you for being an important part of our weeks and for making these moments possible.
TORI PLENNES Executive Director
COURAGE AND CONNECTION
SUPPORTING VETERANS THROUGH HORSES
After a few-year-break from our Veterans rides, we are thrilled to be back in the saddle with the men and women who have served our country. In the last month, we had the honor and privilege of helping host two separate groups of Veterans to foster connection, hope, and fun–all through our favorite fourlegged partners.
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It was amazing to see the walls that some of these men have built up over the years recede.
First, we partnered with Honoring our Veterans to provide a beautiful trail ride experience for five Veterans who have been physically or mentally wounded in combat. Honoring our Veterans is a local nonprofit that strives to improve the physical and mental health of veterans through a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Veterans from around the country come to the Tetons to share their lived experiences with others, build confidence in their independence, and enjoy all the things our beautiful corner of the west has to offer–all at no cost to the Veteran.
On a beautiful September Saturday, we met up with Jake & Sarah of JH Outfitting Company and mounted up on JHTR horses for a stunning trail ride with spectacular Teton views. The whole string of riders, including five Veterans from all over the country, chatted and laughed as we made our way to a picture-perfect spot to dismount and relax. We gathered around the table to enjoy local tapas, drinks, and live music. It was a beautiful evening, and it was so inspiring to hear the stories of these Veterans and
the paths they’ve each tread since serving our country.
Next, JHTR joined forces with Warrior Counseling Works and Camp Hope in Houston, TX to provide an immersive weekend retreat at JHTR. Fifteen combat Veterans, all with PTSD and many with traumatic brain
injuries and a history of addiction, came to JHTR to focus on the horse-human connection. On the first day of the retreat, the Veterans cycled through 3 stations: guiding a horse through an obstacle course, learning about horse care, and practicing ground work and mindfulness with the herd. The following day, they joined us on a trail ride through Grand Teton National Park and ended the day with a delicious meal as the sun set.
By the end of the weekend, the whole group felt like family. Aside from enjoying time with horses in a beautiful place, it was amazing to see the walls that some of these men have built up over the years recede. It was a time of vulnerability, connectedness, learning, and joy.
Through these two autumn weekends spent with Veterans and our horses, we are reminded once again of the powerful impact horses can have on people. These gentle
giants continually showcase the unique ability to read people’s emotions, provide a sense of calm, and promote confidence in the people around them.
All of us at JHTR are so grateful to have had the opportunity to come alongside these Veterans to help show them what a gift our horses are. We owe a special thanks to Jake Hutton, Sara McIntosh, Stefan Fodor, Donny Wackerman, Sandy Sandberg, Ray Dodd, Jess Ball, Dr. Cliff Robertson, Colin Scully, Mike Clinton, Dr. Donna Armstrong, Dave Knaus at Off Grid Experiences, and everyone else who helped make these weekends a reality. We are so appreciative, and can’t wait to continue to welcome Veterans to JHTR.
SAMANTHA MELTON Program Director
A NON-VERBAL CONNECTION
MARGO'S STORY
Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding has accessed a hidden place inside me I did not know existed. An authentic place. A source of power in the rubble of a health crisis that has left me powerless and permanently disabled. If someone told me a year ago I’d be riding a horse, and not just riding but guiding one without assistance, I would not have believed it.
The connection I have with JHTR’s horse, Coal, is a miraculous, non-verbal bond that has offered relief beyond words, literally. My dramatic health journey had culminated in permanent voice paralysis by May 2024, among many other things. In late 2020, my body gave way to a rare, massive abdominal birth defect I never knew I had. By 2022, I was being wheeled - with my intestines shoving themselves into my left ribcage - to the operating room of a states-away surgeon, who was the only one in the country with a lasting solution to my cascading condition. I went in with the hope of an improved quality of life, and came out to a never ending battle for recovery. The ribcage pain was gone, but my insides were upended. All the neurological connections my 45 year old mid-body had developed during the course of my life were severed, and my extremities were in shock. The medical system couldn’t prepare me for what was to come, and it still can’t help me to this very day.
The connection I have with JHTR's horse, Coal, is a miraculous, nonverbal bond that has offered relief beyond words, literally.
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voice decline over time to a permanently painful whisper, I was devastated. This was territory I was not prepared for, nor willing to face. The anger was immense. My quality of life had not improved, and instead, hope had fallen away from me as fast as my social connections and “my normal” had disappeared. I can’t sit or type behind a computer for any length of time without discomfort. It hurts more than ever to dance, though movement is part of my soul. It chokes me to bike. I can’t sing. I can’t lift. I can’t chitchat with passersby. I can’t look people in the eye to talk in the languages I spent my life learning. All the things that I was proud of, that I thought made me who I am and a valuable part of society, had vanished.
In early 2024 when new findings discovered this 7 hour surgery in 2022 had made a grave intubation mistake, causing my
When I met Coal for my first session in May 2024, what a gentle, welcoming giant he was, holding me comfortably as if he knew something I didn’t. I felt so unsteady on Coal at first, energetically clinging to the JHTR volunteers and instructors for dear life. The overwhelming kindness from all involved allowed me to let go of so much of the stored emotional pain behind my physical transformation. The experience reminded me that back in 2022 I’d nicknamed my surgery a “rebirth”, as though I was a toddler on my legs, and I was filling myself back into my insides. I came to trust the 45-minute sessions as just enough to explore movement in a safe environment, free of the daily pressures I’d grown so used to, including my own. If I came to a session feeling off and unable to move well, Coal and the
instructors knew what to do with so much care and grace. All the while, I was shedding layers (and many cathartic tears) that have allowed me to finally unearth a silver lining in my journey: a familiarity and joy with horseback riding that is both staggering and liberating. I sense that Coal believes in me
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The overwhelming kindness from all involved allowed me to let go of so much of the stored emotional pain behind my physical transformation.
and wants me to feel independent again on some level, which is so refreshing in the tangled mess of typing and writing on whiteboards to communicate with humans. He has provided hope for my recovery, in an unexpected sense of the word, and, in fact, untethered from words altogether.
By taking the leap and trusting the process at JHTR (when I thought the world had taken away my ability to trust forever), I have met myself for the first time. I am deeply grateful to have discovered after five months in the program, that horseback riding is a part of me that has been waiting in the wings all this time and finally able to take center stage… despite, and admittedly because of, my birth defect.
MARGO CASLAVKA Participant
ACCESSIBILITY, COMPASSION AND JOY A FAMILY'S JHTR JOURNEY
At Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding our family has found accessibility, compassion, and joy. In many small towns and rural areas, individuals with disabilities are unable to adequately access meaningful engagement in community-based activities. As a parent of two children who participate at JHTR, I am so pleased to share with you the experience our family has had over the past several years. Thank you for all the ways you support JHTR and the families they serve!
Each riding instructor and volunteer meets each child with a positive spirit and provides support and encouragement each lesson...
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improvements in our children’s gait, language and communication skills, dynamic strength and balance, and improved coordination with both fine and gross motor skills. The most impressive growth we have seen is in their confidence and ability to work through challenges. The motivation that the beloved horses provide is unmatched.
When you have a child who receives a disability diagnosis what follows close behind is a rather sterile, cold report of things they ca not or may not do. For our daughter, Annie, in the days following her birth I was surprised at how quickly my advocacy needed to begin to give her a chance to master things on her own timeline. As an Occupational Therapist, it has been very eye-opening to shift from being a therapist to parenting a child with a disability and witnessing the challenges that exist to provide them with stimulating, enriching experiences that target their development in a positive and motivating setting. There are limited opportunities in which children with disabilities are met exactly where they are at by people who truly believe in their abilities.
For individuals with disabilities, engagement in stimulating, motivating, and dynamic physical activity is critical to growth and development. Through JHTR, we have seen
Each riding instructor and volunteer meets each child with a positive spirit and provides support and encouragement each lesson, whether that be verbal praise or simply their loving presence as they sidewalk or lead the horse.
Inaccessibility and lack of programs are two of the biggest barriers individuals with disabilities face in communities, especially in rural areas. Physical spaces are often designed without accessibility in mind, and inclusion is often an afterthought. The thoughtfulness of which JHTR was designed and continues to run is truly remarkable. Our family looks forward to each session we are able to join and we are so thankful for all the staff, volunteers, and generous donors who continue to embody a truly inclusive environment.
MARTHA FARNSWORTH Parent of Participants
2024 RIDER OF THE YEAR: STEPHANIE
At JHTR, we believe that greatness comes from one’s treatment of others, horses and humans alike. Our Rider of the Year embodies this kindness and makes JHTR a better place. Stephanie’s positive spirit brightens the entire facility as soon as she arrives—it is impossible not to smile when you see her!
Stephanie has been a part of the JHTR family for over 15 years. Over time we have watched her grow from a timid beginner into a determined independent rider with a need for speed. What we love the most about Stephanie is not her propensity to fill the staff in on all the latest celebrity gossip, her fashionable outfits, or even her stellar music taste. Stephanie excels because of her quiet kindness and desire to learn. She pours her heart into every lesson and manages to balance her intense determination with a gentleness that makes every horse fall in love with her. Stephanie embraces new challenges and takes every opportunity to learn. Throughout her time at JHTR, Stephanie has become a model student of horsemanship who works diligently to improve and watches other riders closely to lend a helping hand.
It comes as no surprise that our Rider and Horse of the Year have forged a beautiful bond. Stephanie and Twist bring out the best in one another, and their partnership gives us all something to aspire to. Stephanie’s positive energy spreads to each and every participant, volunteer, and horse in the program. We are so grateful to have Stephanie in our program, and we look forward to watching her continue to grow and inspire others.
LINDSAY WOODS Equine Specialist & Instructor
REFLECTIONS OF
GRATITUDE
I am so proud to have played a small role in our community of volunteers during my first season as Volunteer Coordinator at JHTR. Taking the leap from the for-profit to nonprofit world, though initially daunting, has proven to be one of the few wise choices I’ve ventured to make in the early years of my career. JHTR is uniquely fortunate to have a volunteer network rich with spirit, longevity, and immense compassion–a network that seamlessly welcomed me into the fold of an organization with a legacy extending beyond my lifetime. In my effort to reflect on the 2024 season, it only made sense to me to share the perspectives of those who came before me; they’re a true testament to the power of community and perfectly encapsulate the tremendous work accomplished in the arena.
“Every minute that I have spent at the arena volunteering at JHTR has been a gift to me. It is a privilege to play even a small role in the meaningful moments that occur in each lesson. I am in awe of the staff, the horses and, most of all, the riders who participate in the program and my heart is always full when I leave the arena.”
- Susan Conner
“I hope by saying that this is my 15th year volunteering for JHTR that it speaks for itself. I have seen many changes both in the program and people at the helm but all have
“JHTR is uniquely fortunate to have a volunteer network rich with spirit, longevity, and immense compassion.
“been for the good and betterment of JHTR. There have been many moving moments that I have witnessed, such a special privilege. I have received more that I have given. I hope there are many more special moments to witness in my future.”
- Laura Shervin
“Volunteering for therapeutic riding has been a source of great joy for me. Going out there is like going on vacation! It's such a beautiful setting and the staff are incredible to work with ... always appreciative of our help. The horses are amazing and so well cared for because of your true dedication. But what I love the most is the interaction I get to have with the participants. I have seen so much growth in language skills, balance, coordination, problem solving,etc. It is truly a special place! Thank you for all you do!”
- Patti Drui
“I love volunteering at JHTR. The minute I drive up I feel very peaceful because of the amazing mountain view and the horses. I try to let that peacefulness transfer to the students so they have an amazing session.”
- Kathy Bucks
“JHTR is an awesome organization and offers an outstanding program to many people in our community! I thoroughly enjoy volunteering because everyone at JHTR is a joy to work with. They are always looking out for the volunteers and truly care about our experience.”
- Claire Perrin
“What keeps me coming back is the sharing…with the riders, the staff, and the horses. New experiences, new relationships and new friends. You can't beat that."
- Lynne Myers
Here’s to making new memories, witnessing more moments of growth, and strengthening our community of volunteers in future years!
SYDNEY BONHAM Community Outreach Manager
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR SUSAN CONNER
Susan Conner has been the heartbeat of JHTR for a decade, earning the well-deserved title of the 2024 Volunteer of the Year. With years of experience as a special education teacher under her belt, Susan is exceptionally equipped with insight and compassion for riders of all backgrounds and her dedication to our mission shines through in every lesson she’s in. Her consistency is unmatched; she can often be found horse leading multiple lessons a day with a bright smile and infectious enthusiasm. Her interactions with our riders, many of whom face significant challenges, are marked by patience, kindness, and genuine care.
Beyond her regular commitments as a horse leader, Susan goes above and beyond by serving on our board and Stomping the Divots committee. Her willingness to pitch in wherever needed makes her an invaluable asset to our organization. Whether it’s helping a rider feel secure on a horse for the first time, cheering them on during a challenging maneuver, or navigating complex executive decisions, Susan’s positivity and encouragement create a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered and valued. Her commitment to JHTR exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and has deeply enriched the lives of those we serve.
SYDNEY BONHAM
Community Outreach Manager
VOLUNTEER IMPACT REPORT
SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
We at JHTR are incredibly fortunate to have a volunteer network rich with spirit, longevity, and immense compassion. It's a gift to have a community so devoted to our program.
2024
HIGHLIGHTS
Stomping the Divots
Teton County Fair Horse Show
JHTR Community Horse Show
Over 20 volunteers helped us to accomplish our annual fundraising goal at our largest event of the year.
10 volunteers provided 14 riders the opportunity to showcase their skills at the Teton County Fair Horse Show.
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2,446 VOLUNTEERS
23 of our riders celebrated their individual progress with the support of 14 volunteers, most of whom have walked alongside them for years.
RIDERS SERVED HOURS DONATED
VOLUNTEER AWARDS
Volunteer of the Year
Rookie of the Year
Unsung Hero Award
Susan Conner
Ann Cornell
Erin Reynders
I have received more than I have given. “ “
- LAURA SHERVIN Volunteer of 15 years
Sunnie Dawn Petersen Award
Elaine Infanger Award
Wyatt Beard
Jan Lewis
Robin Lightner Award
DeDe McDonald Award
Ronai White Award
Robin Weiss Award
Lisa Lindlau & Chris Glasenapp
Judy Dragonette
Wendy McDearman
Julie & Jack Frappart
LEARNING THE ROPES: AN INTERN'S EXPERIENCE
A recent Sewanee grad embarked from the Appalachian Mountains, Psychology degree in tow, in search of her next adventure at the foot of the Tetons. With a deeply rooted interest in animals and empowering ability, Jean Williams joined us for a summer internship to lay the foundation for a career in the therapeutic field. She recently sat down with Sydney, JHTR’s Community Outreach Manager, to share a glimpse of her experience as a member of the team.
Sydney: How did you hear about JHTR and what made you interested in an internship with us?
Jean: I’d heard about JHTR through my extended family who lives in Kelly–they knew I wanted to work with people with disabilities and that I enjoy being around animals. I was very intrigued by the unique approach JHTR takes to empower ability for all, and using horses to achieve therapeutic goals was something I really wanted to learn more about.
Sydney: How would you describe your experience as an intern with JHTR during our 2024 season?
Jean: My time spent at JHTR was hugely impactful and life changing. It was beautiful to see the connections that participants developed, not only with the horses, but also with the instructors. Each day, I left feeling uplifted and empowered, and it was impossible to leave in a bad mood.
Sydney: Is there a special moment from your time at JHTR that stands out to you?
Jean: One of my favorite moments was Stomping the Divots; it was really admirable to see all the community members not only attend the event, but also donate their time to meticulously coordinate every detail. It’s compelling to see so many people moved to support an organization that does such inspiring work.
Sydney: How does what you learned contribute to your career aspirations?
Jean: I learned the importance of having a positive working environment, along with the power of teamwork. So many places of work can feel disjointed and disconnected, but JHTR really functions as a collective.
Sydney: Would you recommend an internship with JHTR to someone in a similar position as you? Someone in college or a recent graduate?
Jean: I would 100% recommend an internship or volunteering to anyone, especially for someone my age. Post grad life can be a challenging transition. To be able to be a part of an organization where you’re working alongside uplifting, positive people while being able to spend time with animals–it’s such a unique experience for someone in this phase of life.
Sydney: Could you share some of the unexpected aspects of the internship that you enjoyed?
Jean: I enjoyed learning about managing an entire herd of horses and having the opportunity to work outside every morning. It’s one thing to take care of one horse, but an entirely different thing to care for and regularly transport 14 horses. Just learning all of the behind the scenes facets of horsemanship that don’t really occur to you unless you’re actively doing it; I feel much better versed now. During my second week, I inadvertently aided 3 horses in a jailbreak. Needless to say, I now know how to approach them during turnout and have a greater understanding of just how smart they are!
I was also surprised by how individualized every lesson was for each rider. Every instructor adapts to the needs of each participant so effortlessly–no class looks alike, and it’s amazing to see riders’ needs met so seamlessly.
SYDNEY BONHAM Community Outreach Manager
FINDING THE PERFECT PARTNER
Our success at the arena requires daily collaboration between instructors and equine staff to ensure each horse is matched to the lessons they will enjoy and thrive in. This requires recognizing each horse’s strengths and weaknesses and striving to set them up for success.
Some horses have very specific roles within our organization, while others have a more diverse skill-set and therefore can succeed in a broader range of lessons. Taco, for example, has a very specific role as our young participant specialist (or “peanut packer” as we lovingly refer to him). Taco solely serves participants that are under 40lbs and just learning to ride. He thrives in this role because he is patient, unphased by props or games, and friendly to participants who are nervous being on a horse for the first time. On the other hand, we have horses like Twist, who are happy carrying
a young participant with a horse leader and sidewalkers or teaching an independent rider how to post the trot. His ability to adapt to the rider on his back is a rare trait and an asset to our program.
Our program is able to serve our many participants successfully because of our horses. With each of their varied skill sets we are able to meet the diverse needs of our participants. Each week is a puzzle to balance horse workloads while matching them with participants to ensure each pair enjoys the best lesson possible. We are proud to have an exceptional group of horses to complement our hardworking participants.
TWIST: HORSE OF THE YEAR
Twist is a 20-yearold registered quarter horse who had done everything from being a working ranch horse to trail riding before joining our herd at JHTR in the fall of 2022. We added him to our program with the hopes that he could help our independent riders learn how to trot and lope. Before finding Twist, this had been a very specific role that we were struggling to find the appropriate horse to fill. Twist is uniquely suited to this teaching role because of his responsive nature, smooth gaits, and patient personality. From his first days at JHTR it was clear that Twist was exactly the horse we needed, but it wasn’t until this year that we learned how much more he has to offer.
In his second full season with us, Twist has truly hit his stride when it comes to empowering ability. Not only does he continue to expand horizons for our independent riders, but he has also excelled in more adaptive lessons as he has become a first choice horse for participants who require a ramp-assisted mount. Twist is now one of the few coveted horses that could enhance the lives of any one of our participants, whether they need a calm horse to stand patiently while they mount for the very first time, or an athletic, safe horse to guide them into their very first lope. Every single day he exceeds our expectations!
If you are one of the brave volunteers who helps muck stalls, you may know Twist best by his notoriously messy living room, or the grumpy faces he makes if we dare to feed his neighbors before him; but you likely also recognize the way he nickers at anyone passing by, eagerly begging for a scratch on the neck. He is one of our quirkier horses, but we wouldn’t trade him for the world. We are so excited at the progress he has made within our program, and endlessly grateful for the good he has done for our participants. We cannot wait to see how he excels in the future!
MARA KINGSCOTT Equine Director
MARA & LINDSAY Equine Team
HAVE YOU HERD? JHTR HORSE UPDATES
In addition to the three new horses who joined us in the spring, we were excited to bring Tornado ("Nado") into the JHTR herd in early October.
Nado is a 9 year old Quarter Horse who was generously donated by Lalage and Steven Rales. He is an old soul with a kind eye and has quickly taken to his new career as a therapeutic riding horse. Nado is highly trained in the western discipline which will allow our independent participants to learn more technical movements on a seasoned horse. He also enjoys carrying around our younger participants who love his curious nature and his habit of staring at himself in the mirror any chance he gets. Nado loves attention so please say hi to him next time you are out at the arena!
Captain has dedicated eight years of service to JHTR. He has been a go-to horse for so many different lesson types because of his intuition to care for his rider.
Captain has been a favorite among the staff, volunteers, and participants over the years. Our commitment to putting our horses first means making the difficult decision to retire a horse before the decision is made for us. We know Captain deserves to spend the rest of his years at leisure in the care of a loving family.
After fielding an overwhelming number of inquiries from potential new homes, we are excited and grateful to announce that Captain will be remaining in Jackson with the Jay family (Katie, Chris, and Edie).
MARA KINGSCOTT Equine Director
2024 HORSE SPONSORS
Buckwheat
Melissa & Tim Kelly
Charlie Brown
Ronai White
Coal
Colleen & John Murray
Lennie
Eileen & Greg Prugh
Pot Roast
Leigh Chrisinger
Rooster
Paul von Gontard
Seabiscuit
Jenny & Thom Fross
Sonic
Oatsy von Gontard
Taco
Graze Garden & Home
Duffel Donkey
Tornado
Jennifer Truman
Tuck
Robert Zelnio & Susan Schmeichel
Tulsa
Theresa Godchaux
Twist
Katie & Donnie Wackerman
Help Purchase a Horse:
Michelle & Charles Goodman
Pasture Donors:
Adam & Julia Long
Eric & Dana Macy
Colleen & John Murray
Snake River Ranch
2024 JHTR HORSE AWARDS
One of the best parts of spending time at the JHTR is getting to know the different personalities of each of our horses. Inside and outside the riding arena, our horses make us smile, laugh, and sometimes roll our eyes with their antics. Throughout the final session of the 2024 season, participants, volunteers, and staff casted their votes for the horses they felt best represented the following six superlatives: 1) Most Popular, 2) Rookie of the Year, 3) Most Likely to Make Your Day, 4) Class Clown, 5) Best Hair, and 6) Most Opinionated. Thank you to everyone who submitted a vote. We hope the results make you smile!
STOMPING THE DIVOTS AN EVENTFUL RETURN TO THE POLO FIELDS
This year’s Stomping the Divots was an incredible success! Though the evening began with some unexpected bad weather, our dedicated guests stuck it out. Soon the skies cleared, revealing a beautiful night under the stars.
The evening kicked off with an unforeseen change to the polo match. Due to wet field conditions that made playing unsafe, the Jackson Hole Polo Club adapted by providing a demonstration of various aspects of the game. Guests were treated to an upclose look at the skill, speed, and strategy involved in polo.
Next, guests were inspired as our riders showcased the skills and confidence they’ve developed through our program. The pride on their faces was unmistakable, and the audience’s support was overwhelming.
During our horse adoption, the outpouring of generosity for our horses was incredible as sponsors stepped up to ensure that every horse received a loving sponsor.
Excitement only grew as we headed into the live auction, where guests competed for a variety of exclusive items and experiences. The standout of the night was a stunning pearl necklace from Pearls by Shari, which sold for a remarkable $21,000!
The night concluded on a high note with dancing under the clear skies, as everyone celebrated the record-breaking success of the event.
To our sponsors, guests, and supporters — thank you for making Stomping the Divots such an overwhelming success. Your dedication led to an evening that raised a net total of $427,000 in vital funds for our program! We are so grateful for your support and look forward to celebrating together again at next year’s event on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
TORI PLENNES Executive Director
JHTR STAFF YEAR-END 2024
Tori Plennes Executive Director
Samantha Melton Program Director
Mara Kingscott Equine Director
Sarah Beninga President
Colleen Murray Vice President
Sydney Bonham Community Engagement Mgr
Jessica Eastman Occupational Therapist
Lindsay Woods Equine Specialist
Amber Schonert Head Instructor
Nichole Cox Instructor
Aleese Holiday Instructor
Addy Hutchison-Brown Instructor
BOARD OF DIRECTORS YEAR-END 2024
Wendy McDearman Secretary
Stefan Fodor Treasurer
Toby Biolchini
Patty Chapman
Susan Conner
Maegan Sawyers Instructor
Francesca Weikert Instructor
Sarah Wilson Instructor
Christi Yannelli Instructor
Robin Lightner
Kristin Nielson
Tamara Palmer
Eileen Prugh
Every gift to Jackson Hole Therapeutic Riding, no matter the size, makes a meaningful impact. We are committed to stretching every dollar to its fullest potential, ensuring that it directly supports programs that provide lifechanging experiences for individuals of all ages and abilities. Your contribution helps us maintain our horses, enhance our facilities, and sustain our partnerships with local schools, Veterans organizations, and rehabilitation programs. With your help, we will continue to create lasting, positive change in the lives of those we serve.
