Board Members and Officers
BARBARA LANE
President/Executive Director
Heather Chism
Vice President
Michael Willingham
Treasurer
Michael currently works in the accounting department of Birchwood Farms. Began volunteering with ERP shortly after relocating from Florida to the Harbor Springs area. It is incredibly fulfilling to be part of a group that helps these kids have a great time.
Laura Richards
Secretary
Laura Richards I earned a CDA in Early Childhood Development and taught Preschool while my children were growing up. Iv’e worked as a medical assistant and currently work in the dental field. Children and animals have always held a special place in my heart and have been a large part of my life. My daughter and I started horseback riding when she was in grade school so we could have a shared interest.
Living in Northern Michigan allows me the opportunity to enjoy nature at it’s best. Whether it’s hiking, bird watching, gardening or walking the beaches.
To be able to be involved in the Exceptional Riders Program allows me to help children and work with horses. What could be better?
Working Board Members
Barbara Lane
Riding Instructor
Mary Lee
Instructor & Volunteer Coordinator
Heather Chism
Riding Instructor
Kathy Stewart, OT
Occupational Therapist
Donna Hunter
Publicity Coordinator
HEATHER CHISM
Horse Manager
Watching the students build confidence and strength every session is why I love to volunteer!
Mary Lee
Horse Manager
Mary Lee has loved horses her entire life. As a young adult she discovered the joy of teaching Horsemanship and horseback riding to kids and adults. After moving to this part of Michigan she was introduced to The Exceptional Riders Program in 1998. 2003 Mary became a certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. It’s wonderful knowing you are making a lasting, life changing impact in a student’s life and giving hope to a family.
Kathy Stewart, OT
Snacks Coordinator
Kathy Stewart is an Occupational Therapist who has served adults, children, and infants with physical and emotional challenges for over 45 years. Adapting and modifying living and leisure activities to allow individuals to fully participate in life. She lives in Harbor Springs spending her time volunteering for community programs as well as enjoying the nature of Northern Michigan.