Steppingstone
Stables
MEET THE TEAM
MICHELLE RODGERS
Facilitator & Youth Counselor
Michelle has always wanted to share her passion for horses with others, particularly Youth, who may be faced with life challenges. She values the impact that working with horses has on a person's overall well being. Improved self-esteem, emotional-regulation and learned life-skills, that can be paralleled back to the participants everyday life, are just a few of the aspects that can be developed.
Michelle began her equine training at the young age of 8. For the past 23 years she has continued to expand her knowledge and understanding of horses and the sport of riding by taking regular riding lessons, attending clinics and through self-research. She has trained and successfully competed in a wide variety of equine disciplines including Prince Phillip Mounted Games, the AQHA circuit, Gymkhanas, Team Sorting, low level Eventing and Hunter Jumper.
Michelle is a registered Child and Youth Care Counsellor having graduated from Lethbridge College. She went on to work in a Residential Youth Treatment Center for numerous years where she gained front line experience. Counselling, developing treatment plans, behavior
modification, and transitioning Youth into their next placement were all areas that she excelled in. She received her certificate in Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) from Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning and founded Steppingstone Stables Inc. with the purpose of reaching at-risk Youth and their Families.
OTIS
Otis came to Steppingstone Stables in 2014. He was very malnourished, was covered in burs and had several open wounds. "Despite his neglect, Otis came right to the gate lowered his head and closed his eyes. I knew he would be coming home with me." At a whopping 16.2hh this guy is the epitome of a Gentle Giant. He will stand for hours being brushed and loves taking beginners for slow rides to teach them the ropes.
PRINCESS
Princess is a pretty palomino paint and has been apart of our herd since 2008. She had a few owners before coming to us but we tracked her to being born at Bear Valley Rescue; a great organization that helps rescue unwanted horses. (Check out that baby picture!) She loves giving hugs, being brushed and just being around people in general. She is stubborn and a bit lazy but that's what makes her personality so fun!
SASSY
Sassy came to us in 2010 as a speedy Gymkhana horse. She's our sensitive, spunky Quarter Horse and is a beautiful chestnut with a big white star on her forehead. She retired from riding and is only used for EAL. She is highly reactive to her surroundings but if she trusts you, then she will move mountains to please you. A great partner for building trust!
SCOTTY
Scotty is a registered Welsh Palomino pony with one blue eye and one brown eye. He came to us in 2016, from a reputable breeder and was born to be a "kids' pony". He LOVES kids! well, any attention, and often nickers or whinnies if someone walks past without saying hi. He's little but challenges the typical stereotype of the "stubborn pony". What stereotypes have you proven wrong?
Copper
Copper is a 8 year old, Quarter Horse mare. She is the first one to the gate and the first one to run away from you. She loves being brushed but only truly connects with genuine people. She is a kind soul who stands her ground in the herd - a true strong chestnut mare!
STORMY
Stormy is a 12 year old Quarter Horse mare. We took a chance on her, buying her from an Auction, but have never looked back. She is the sweetest horse on the property and LOVES children! With some extra love, soft hands and saddle time - she is an amazing athlete and we're excited to see how she grows with further training.
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