Our Story

The Stables is a registered 501(c)(3) organization offering Equine training and stabling Services.  As a non-profit, Dr. Ken Miller and Roxanne Miller have gracefully donated use of the facility to assist children and adults gain therapeutic benefits from riding and loving horse—sharing their passion. 

Roxanne Miller: President 

Dr. Ken Miller: Board Member 

“Roxanne and I knew it was what God wanted us to do.”

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​Roxanne Miller is a retired Special Education teacher and President of The Stables.  Along with her husband, Ken, she co-founded the Stables Therapeutic Foundation in 2023.  Roxanne has been married to Ken for 42 years they have four children and  of ten grandchildren.  They own and still show Paso Fino horses in Ocala Florida.  The stables combine her love of horses, children, and giving back to the community through equine-assisted services.

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​Dr. Ken Miller is a dedicated professional with a passion for education and community service.  Ken has worked for Parkland Health Center since 1996 as a Radiologist.  Ken co-founded the Stables Therapeutic Foundation in 2023 alongside his wife, Roxanne.  Their love of horses, children and community make The Stables the perfect match.  Their 87 acre property has brought many a happy smiles and with Gods blessing will continue to do for many more years.

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Varina Luttrul: Lead Instructor

“Horses and people are my life.  The STABLEs is a unique and wonderful place.”

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Varina Luttrull is a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and the Head Instructor for The STABLEs. In addition to her instructional role, she provides consultation on program coordination and herd management. Her passion for therapeutic riding is deeply personal, as she is also the mother of a therapeutic riding student.

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Jeff Evans: Vice President 

“I'm a father who is passionate about horses and helping others enjoy them. I am honored to be the board's VP.”

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Former owner of Light Rein Ranch in Bonne Terre, Jeff Evans trained mounted patrol horses, boarded, and gave riding lessons to children and adults.  Jeff was also an on-air broadcast personality and program director for many local radio stations such as KLPW, KFMO, KDBB, KSLQ...  One of his favorite shows was "Horse Sense" , a weekly equine talk show on numerous radio stations.  Jeff also has been active in the movie industry as a prop builder, stuntman, and actor.  He has also served as the Desloge Chamber of Commerce President and Vice President.  Today, Jeff works full-time managing the stable and its programs.

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Michelle and Paul Nash grew up around horses—trail riding and actively showing.  In their free time, you can find them spending time with The STABLEs.  Their older children enjoy volunteering and riding at the STABLEs.  Michelle is a Family Nurse Practitioner, and being part of this exciting program and watching it grow brings great joy to her.  Paul works for a car hauling company and is on the road 5 days a week. 

Michelle Nash- Secretary 

Paul Nash- Board Member 

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“Michelle and I give up many weeknights and weekends to The STABLEs without hesitation.”

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Rhonda Menne has built a fulfilling life alongside her husband, Kevin Menne—a retired National Guard Service Member.  With a career of over two decades, Rhonda has been a pillar of her community, working as a diligent bookkeeper and tax preparation expert.  Her unwavering commitment to her clients and profession has earned her the respect and trust of those seeking her services.  Rhonda's proficiency in managing financial records and providing expert guidance on tax matters has made her an indispensable resource for The STABLEs.

Rhonda Menne - Financial Officer

“We love helping out at THE STABLES.”

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Tina Vandergriff has worked many years as a Medical Office Manager and also as Head Trainer for the Centre Center. Tina loves working and helping with all the equine-assisted services at the Stables. 

Tina Vandergriff- Board of Directors 

                             Session Coordinator

“It is my honor to serve in any capacity I can for The STABLEs.” 

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Ashton Brackett brings her masters in marketing to our organization to help get our message out. Born and raised in the beautiful landscapes of southeast Missouri, she’s always been an outdoor enthusiast at heart.  Whether it's hunting in the crisp autumn air, hiking through lush trails, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, the outdoors is where Ashton finds inspiration for her creative endeavors. 

Ashton Brackett: Board of Directors 

“As a mom of three incredible kids, I've learned the art of juggling.”

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As head of our sponsor program, Daine Will ensures we keep our lights on.  Diana also coordinates all our volunteer programs.  We would be lost without her.  She wears many hats at THE STABLEs and works very hard for the cause.

Diane Will: Board of Directors 

Volunteer Coordinator

Head of Sponsors  

Donors Committee

“I love everything about THE STABLEs.”

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OUR HORSES

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In the pasture, Peanut stands out like a beacon of cleanliness amidst the sea of mud, her brindle coat adorned with delicate light-colored stripes that are not the product of dirt but rather the exquisite markings of her unique coloring. It's impossible not to be captivated by her striking appearance and endearing presence.

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Despite her petite frame, Peanut's spirit is boundless, radiating warmth and affection to all who cross her path. She thrives on the attention and affection showered upon her by our clients, eagerly reciprocating with gentle nuzzles and playful antics that melt even the coldest of hearts.

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We dare you not to succumb to Peanut's irresistible charm and enchanting allure. With her, every encounter is a delightful adventure filled with laughter, love, and the purest form of joy. Prepare to be enchanted by this little beauty—we guarantee you'll fall head over heels in love at first sight.

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Lizzy's nature make her an ideal choice for both therapeutic sessions and enjoyable rides for our advanced students as well. Her enthusiasm is contagious, bringing a sense of joy and excitement to all who interact with her. Lizzy’s easy-going temperament and willingness to engage with riders of all ages and skill levels make her a versatile and reliable horse. She thrives in the presence of people and enjoys the attention she receives during grooming and riding sessions. This makes her not only a pleasure to ride but also a joy to care for.

We believe Lizzy's unique blend of energy and tranquility will quickly make her a favorite among our riders. Her ability to adapt to different activities, whether it’s a calm therapeutic session or a more dynamic private lesson, showcases her remarkable versatility. We can’t wait for you to meet and ride her! Prepare to be charmed by Lizzy’s vibrant personality and experience the special bond she forms with everyone she meets. With Lizzy, every session is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Though Sophie walks a bit faster than some of our other service horses, she's a joy to ride. Sophie’s gentle demeanor and willingness to follow commands make her an exceptional addition to our team. Her reliable nature ensures that every rider feels safe and comfortable, while her lively spirit keeps things interesting. Whether you’re participating in an equine-assisted therapy session or enjoying a leisurely ride, Sophie’s presence is sure to enhance your experience. In addition to her excellent service work, Sophie loves being around people and forming bonds with her riders. She thrives on attention and affection, often nuzzling up for a gentle pat or a reassuring hug. This friendly behavior makes her a favorite among both our staff and clients.

Pistol is a valuable addition to our program, especially for riders who are new to the experience. Her ability to lead well and tolerate multiple riders on her back is an excellent quality, as it allows for shared riding experiences and can be particularly helpful for group sessions or riders who need additional support. Her tolerance for loud noises and her slow and steady nature make her a reassuring and reliable partner. This is crucial for providing a positive first experience to new riders, ensuring their comfort and safety during their initial interactions with horses. Pistol's love for being brushed and taken on walks to enjoy some green grass adds to the overall therapeutic and enjoyable experience she offers to our clients. It's clear that Pistol is a friendly and patient horse, perfect for introducing individuals to the world of horse riding and building their confidence in the process.

With his gentle demeanor and affectionate nature, Mr. Pipet has endeared himself to everyone he meets, be they children or adults. As he enjoys his well-earned retirement, Mr. Pipet finds solace and joy at The STABLEs, where he is cherished and lovingly cared for. His presence brings a special warmth to our community, and we are honored to provide him with a serene and fulfilling retirement doing what he loves most, giving sessions to our clients.  Bring on the hugs and kisses for this one.  He loves the attention and looks for those treats.

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With each stride, Skye exudes a sense of tranquility and confidence, whether she's picking up speed with a burst of energy or strolling leisurely along, taking in the world around her. Her versatility is unmatched, making her a valuable asset to our Equine Service Team.

We couldn't be more thrilled to welcome Skye into our family, knowing that her presence will enrich the lives of all who have the privilege of crossing paths with her. As part of our team, Skye brings not only her physical prowess but also a deep sense of empathy and understanding, intuitively connecting with those she encounters.

Whether it's providing a gentle ride for beginners or offering a spirited adventure for the more experienced, Skye adapts effortlessly to meet the needs of each rider. Her willingness to serve and her innate ability to forge bonds of trust make her an invaluable member of our team.

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Fern is a distinguished 16-year-old Rocky Mountain horse with a wealth of experience and a gentle disposition. Having recently completed an intensive 60 days of specialized training under the expert guidance of Michael Gascon, Fern has demonstrated exceptional versatility and skill.

Her extensive training has honed her abilities to cater to riders of all levels, making her an ideal partner for our diverse clientele. Whether you are a seasoned equestrian or new to riding, Fern’s calm demeanor and well-rounded experience ensure a rewarding and enjoyable experience for everyone. We are confident that Fern will become a cherished member of our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our clients' equestrian journeys.

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With her graceful demeanor and gentle disposition, Coco is the epitome of the perfect equine companion for us. Not too large in stature, she stands as a testament to refined beauty and sophistication. Her affectionate nature and eagerness to connect make her an ideal partner for those seeking comfort and companionship.

Whether it's our youngest riders taking their first steps into the equestrian world or our seasoned veterans seeking a trusty companion, Coco is there to guide and support with unwavering patience and grace. She possesses a remarkable ability to instill confidence in all who interact with her, making each encounter a memorable and enriching experience.

In Coco, we've found not just a horse, but a true friend and mentor—a beacon of light in our equestrian journey. We can't wait for you to meet her and experience the magic she brings to our lives and the lives of those around her. Get ready to be captivated by Coco's charm and grace—it's a meeting you won't soon forget.

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