Janice Hyde, Executive Director, Never Say Never Foundation

"Miss Janice" is a mother of two and former first grade teacher who experienced a traumatic, life changing illness. An equestrian herself, and alum of RIT and Nazareth College, Janice created Never Say Never Foundation to connect the healing love of horses to children in need. Dreams do come true!

Karen Haasis, Program Coordinator

In addition to working full-time and raising a family, Karen spends numerous hours at NSN helping children of all abilities ride and interact with our special horses every week. She is responsible for coordinating, scheduling and contacting our NSN Foundation clients and families. Karen's sense of humor and genuine kind nature make it easy for children of all abilities and their families to feel right at home here!

Charlene Gardner, Volunteer Coordinator/Assistant Programs & Special Events Coordinator

A former medical lab technician, Charlene works part-time in the Webster School District at an elementary school. She and her daughters spend their free time and summers at the stable. She instructs various programs, works with the NSN Foundation riding program and performs “behind the scenes” horse care year round. A lifelong horse lover who enjoys working with children, she has found the perfect combination at NSN. It has been most rewarding seeing the happiness and delight interacting with horses can bring to a child.

Nicole Gardner, Camps Director

Nicole is a Thomas H.S. student who has been volunteering at NSN since the summer of 2009. She has a wide range of responsibilities and is knowledgeable in many aspects of horsemanship. Her summers and free time year round are spent at the stable caring for the horses and instructing camps and other programs. As director of camps, she researches and prepares materials to educate the children in a fun to learn, child friendly manner. Nicole continues to increase her own skills by taking lessons and observing different styles of horsemanship. Her love of working with horses and children has been a dream come true.

Emilia (Mia) LaPlante, Trainer

Emilia, or Mia, is one of our trainer/instructors here at NSN. She has enjoyed riding and working with horses since the young age of six. Her experience includes confident and comfortable handling and basic training of all types of horses and riding for pleasure, both English and Western. Mia is a 2010-2011 graduate of the Ministry Apprentice Program at Miracle Mountain Ranch. She finds great reward in helping others gain confidence and skill in horse handling and riding, all with an emphasis on safety and fun!

Judy Baier, Volunteer/Horse Handler

Judy is recently retired from the Retail Management Industry. She enjoys being a part of the NSN Foundation program. Judy has a love for both people and horses, and enjoys everyday that she can help to make NSN a great place to visit. Judy always has a smile for everyone she meets here at the farm!

Sandy Hansen, Special Programs Instructor

(photo and bio coming soon!)

Roger Gardner, Project Coordinator

A quotations engineer at Rotork Controls, Roger spends many weekends doing assorted repairs and maintenance around the farm. He enjoys designing and building projects which help improve the functioning of the stable. He has been instrumental in securing donated labor and funds through his company for several projects .