Meet Our Team

Laura Keller

Executive Director

Biography

The desire to volunteer at a non-profit that enhances the lives of special needs individuals through human equine connection

Year joined Horses Help team: 2025

Alma Mater: Seattle Pacific University Bachelors degree Business Marketing

What led you to Horses Help: With 25+ years in nonprofit leadership, I’m committed to using my experience to bring joy, empowerment, and healing locally. I'm honored to collaborate with dedicated staff, generous donors, and passionate volunteers to ensure our programs uplift and serve our vibrant community.

Fun fact about yourself: I enjoy refurbishing furniture and making old things new again.

Biography

Copy of Horses Help is a premier accredi

Courtney Mellor

Operations Director

Biography

The desire to volunteer at a non-profit that enhances the lives of special needs individuals through human equine connection

Love Me!

Year joined Horses Help team: 2025

Alma Mater: University of Missouri, Kansas City

What led you to Horses Help: The opportunity to create and develop meaningful Equine Assisted Services at a PATH International Premier Accredited Center.

Fun fact about yourself: My husband and I love to whale watch on our boat "Gratitude" in San Diego.

Biography

Lauren Smith

Program Manager

Biography

Year joined the Horses Help team: 2013

Alma Mater: UC Davis

What led you to Horses Help: The desire to volunteer at a non-profit that enhances the lives of special needs individuals through human equine connection

Biography

Year joined Horses Help team: 2024

Alma Mater: Utah State University Psychology degree with a minor in Equine-Human Science

What led you to Horses Help: I have long admired horses and their deep understanding of humans. My goal is to raise awareness of the healing and strengthening power of working with equines, both physically and emotionally.

Fun fact about yourself: Spanish speaker, some believe Spanish was my first language when they hear me speak!