Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a positive impact in a safe environment for service members. The foundation is built on a team approach, including horses. We focus on safety, guidance, integrity and the welfare of the animals to insure the highest standards in equine assisted activities.
The Team
Elena
Elena is a Delaware native, graduate of St. Mark’s High School, spouse to a retired Air Force Veteran, mother of four, Nonna to three grandchildren and lifelong horsewoman. She has held a volunteer position with the Delaware State 4H Equine Advisory Board for over ten years and is an active volunteer with the Del Mar Ranch Riders. After years of riding and working with multiple breeds of horses in multiple disciplines found Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in 2014 and began her journey of becoming a certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning through EAGALA, earning a Military Certification, Military Program Designation, as well as becoming PATH Int’l educated.
She continues her equine journey through horsemanship clinics, mental health trainings, and is currently training in a unique model used to resolve complex trauma in combat veterans. Her passion for horses accompanies her empathy in helping Military members and Veterans heal from their experiences. When she is not working, spending time with her family, or training you can find her and her “therapist” partner Molly at ranch shows or out on the trails enjoying their time together!
Chris
Chris is a proud Delaware native and graduate of Smyrna High School. A retired U.S. Air Force veteran, he served with distinction as a special mission aviator before retiring in 2005. Following his military career, Chris dedicated himself to consulting in life safety and force protection, focusing on the well-being of deployed personnel and their families.
A devoted father of four and “G-dude” to three grandchildren, Chris remains deeply committed to serving others. He currently volunteers as the Delaware Team Lead (Team 302) for Project Refit, a collaborative initiative that brings together Project Refit, Irreverent Warriors, and Reins of Honor. These community-driven nonprofits provide vital peer support programs for veterans and first responders. Under his leadership, Team 302 works to create safe, supportive spaces where these brave individuals can find connection, healing, and strength through shared experience.
Chris is also active in the Smyrna community. He frequently speaks at municipal events and serves on the boards of three local nonprofits. His volunteer work extends to organizations such as his local Lodge, the Shriners Children’s Hospital, and Ducks Unlimited.
When he’s not working or spending time with his family, you’ll find Chris enjoying the outdoors—most often in the woods or along the Eastern Shore.
Lisa
The herd
Donkey is our senior therapist and has been a part of our family since 1990. His favorite food are peppermints!
Bella is a travelling favorite. She has been with us since 2003 and is known for her kindness and ability to help calm clients who experience anxiety.
Misty is a favorite among clients. She is the biggest of the herd and is known for her welcomes. She has been a part of our herd since 2011.
Molly is often seen out on the trails and at ranch shows, unless she is teaching her clients the importance of boundaries and connection! She came to live with us in 2009.
Elly May is the youngest of the herd, born here at our farm on May 2, 2022. At just 3 years old she is still learning the importance of personal space, regular exercise and manners! She is known for her comical personality!
