ABOUT | The Stables

Our Story

Founded in 2023, The STABLEs is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing equine-assisted services focused on riding instruction, horsemanship, and horse care.

Created to serve children and adults in the surrounding communities, the facility offers a supportive environment where participants experience the physical, emotional, and developmental benefits of working with and riding horses. Through structured lessons and hands-on learning in grooming, handling, and care, The STABLEs fosters confidence, responsibility, and meaningful connection—both in and out of the saddle.

Our Team

Roxanne Miller
Co-Founder & Board of Directors President

As President of The STABLEs Equine Therapeutic Foundation, Roxanne Miller brings a lifelong passion for horses and an unwavering commitment to community, inclusion, and equine education. Her background in Special Education, along with professional experience as both a legal and medical secretary, uniquely equips her to blend organizational leadership with compassionate service.

Roxanne’s dedication to creating an environment where individuals of all abilities can grow and thrive is central to the foundation’s mission. Her deep understanding of the horse–human connection, paired with a heart for stewardship, helps guide the vision and direction of The STABLEs.

She and her husband, Dr. Ken Miller, are blessed with four children and nine grandchildren. Roxanne’s devotion to family, education, and equine welfare continues to shape her leadership and inspire the values upon which the organization was founded.

Dr. Ken Miller, MD
Co-Founder & Board of Directors Member

Dr. Miller brings decades of leadership, medical expertise, and community service to the organization’s mission.

Since 1997, Dr. Miller has served as Head Radiologist at Park Health Center, where he is known for his dedication to patient care and clinical excellence. His background in healthcare provides valuable insight into the physical and emotional benefits of equine-assisted services and supports the foundation’s commitment to safety, stewardship, and service.

Through his steady guidance and support, Dr. Miller plays an important role in advancing the vision and long-term sustainability of The STABLEs.

Jeff Evans

Board of Directors Vice President & CHA Certified Instructor

With a diverse professional background and lifelong dedication to horsemanship, Jeff brings both practical expertise and creative leadership to the organization.

As the former owner of Light Rein Ranch in Bonne Terre, Jeff trained mounted patrol horses, provided boarding services, and taught riding lessons to children and adults. His hands-on experience in training, instruction, and stable management provides a strong operational foundation for The STABLEs’ programs and daily activities.

Beyond the barn, Jeff’s background in media and communications—including serving as an on-air broadcast personality and program director for stations such as KLPW, KFMO, KDBB, and KSLQ—enhances the organization’s outreach and community engagement efforts. His weekly equine talk show, Horse Sense, reflected his passion for education and his ability to connect with audiences—skills that continue to benefit the foundation today.

Jeff has also worked in the film industry as a prop builder, stuntman, and actor, experiences that contribute creativity, adaptability, and resourcefulness to program development and facility management. His prior service as President and Vice President of the Desloge Chamber of Commerce further demonstrates his commitment to community leadership and collaboration.

Today, Jeff works full-time managing the stable and its programs, ensuring that The STABLEs operates with professionalism, safety, and a welcoming spirit for all participants.

Michelle Nash

Co-Founder & Board of Directors, Secretary

Michelle Nash is a Family Nurse Practitioner whose heart for service and community wellness extends far beyond the clinic. As Co-Founder and Secretary of the Board of Directors, she has been instrumental in helping shape and support the vision of the organization from its earliest days. Watching the program grow and witnessing its impact on participants and families brings her tremendous joy and fulfillment.

Michelle’s lifelong connection to horses began in childhood, where she spent countless hours trail riding and actively showing. Those early experiences fostered not only a love for horsemanship, but also a deep appreciation for the unique bond between horse and rider—an understanding that continues to inspire her involvement today.

Michelle and her husband, Paul, share a commitment to the mission and the community it serves.

Paul Nash

Board of Directors, Member

Paul works for a car hauling company, spending much of his week on the road. His profession demands consistency, responsibility, and reliability—qualities he brings to his involvement with The STABLEs.

Despite a schedule that keeps him traveling five days a week, Paul remains a steady and supportive advocate for the program and its continued growth within the community. His strong work ethic and quiet commitment reflect his belief in the mission and long-term impact of The STABLEs.

Alan Bayless

Board of Directors, Member
Having a background in Chemical Engineering and Horticulture Program with state-of-the-art greenhouses in 2001. Many course offerings, including on-line courses, allowed students flexibility in completing their degree, or transferring
to four-year university programs. One of my favorite courses was the Equine Science and Management class which included hands-on labs supported by local equine facilities.

Gina Talbot

Board of Directors, Member

With a daughter actively participating in lessons at The STABLEs, Gina brings both a personal connection and a deep appreciation for the organization’s mission. Coupled with her strong background in administration and organizational management, she thoughtfully contributes her time and talents in service as a member of the Board. Her perspective offers a unique balance of heartfelt investment and objective insight, strengthening the organization’s ability to grow with purpose and integrity.

Cindy Young

Board of Directors, Treasurer

A registered nurse by profession, Cindy has dedicated her career — and her personal time — to caring for and serving others in her community.

Having grown up around rodeo and horses, Cindy developed a lifelong love and respect for them, along with a deep appreciation for their therapeutic nature. She understands firsthand the powerful connection between horse and rider and the confidence, healing, and growth that relationship can foster.

Cindy’s devotion to her community, combined with her compassion, financial oversight, and heart for service, makes her a steady and valued presence on the Board. Her commitment to The STABLEs reflects both her passion for helping others and her belief in the transformative impact of equine-assisted services.

Varina Luttrull

Executive Director

A certified instructor through PATH Intl. and Equi-First Aid USA, she brings more than 13 years of experience in the therapeutic riding industry and over 35 years as a dedicated horsewoman. Her background includes work as an instructor, horse trainer, and barn manager, along with extensive knowledge in horse care and herd management.

Serving as Executive Director, she provides leadership in program development, instruction, and operational oversight. Her longstanding passion for horses, equine education, and veterinary-minded care is reflected in her commitment to safety and best practices — including advanced training in equine first aid.

Her dedication to therapeutic riding is also deeply personal. As the mother of a daughter with physical and physiological challenges, she understands firsthand the transformative impact equine-assisted services can have on individuals and families. This perspective, combined with professional expertise, shapes a leadership style grounded in compassion, integrity, and excellence.

Reagan Evans

Volunteer – Herd Care & Program Support

A familiar and dependable presence at The STABLEs, she serves wherever she is needed — whether in the barn, during lessons, or at fundraising and community events. Growing up immersed in the program, she has developed a natural confidence around horses and a strong understanding of daily operations.

Never hesitant to step in (whether by choice or cheerful “voluntold” status), she consistently demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and a willingness to learn. As she nears the completion of her high school career, she continues to model leadership, teamwork, and a genuine heart for service. Her steady involvement and positive spirit make her a valued part of the STABLEs community.

Bambi P.

Assistant Herd Care Volunteer

Growing up with horses and sharing a deep love of them with her mom, Bambi brings both experience and heart to The STABLEs. She generously dedicates her free time to helping care for our special horses and is always ready to lend a hand with lessons, fundraisers and wherever she's needed most. Her dedication and quiet reliability make her a valued part of our team.

Kris C.

Volunteer

Kris is a dedicated member of The STABLEs team who is always eager to lend a hand. He takes great pride in helping keep the facility near and welcoming, and he especially enjoys spending time with the horses. Whether assisting with lesson preparation, practicing his horsemanship skills, or treating the horses to a well deserved "spa day", his enthusiasm and gentle spirit shine through in all he does.

Our Horses

Not every horse is suited for the unique role of therapeutic riding. It takes a special balance of patience and responsiveness, a horse who is forgiving, steady and kind, yet attentive and willing.

Each member of our herd is thoughtfully tested and carefully introduced to the program to ensure they are both comfortable and confident in their work. They are more than lesson horses, they are partners in progress.

Every horse brings something special to The STABLEs, and together, they make healing, growth and connection possible.