Employee Spotlight
Our Employees are the heart and soul of the Ranch. Each one brings their unique skills to provide the best services to our Clients.
October 2025: Sean Campbell
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I love the mission and the people here. I was drawn to the chance to connect with the animals and give back to the community.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
For me, it’s about creating real connections, giving back, and finding that balance between hard work, community, and personal growth.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
Rufus, hands down. I’m not even sure exactly why, but something about his gentle personality and slight skittishness makes me want to scratch his neck all day.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like hanging out with my pups at home, riding my dirt bike, and getting out backpacking. Really, just taking in all the beautiful scenery Colorado has to offer.
September 2025: Drew Spera
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
Because I want to be there and work
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
A place full of animals
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
All of the goats, chickens, rabbits and horses because I feed them and take care of them
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Cooking class at the ranch, shopping and watching TV at home
August 2025: Rachel Jacobs
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I was inspired to come to Affinity Ranch based off of the mission set, combined with the authenticity of the volunteers and the staff. I have previously worked and volunteered at other adaptive riding and therapeutic programs, and Affinity Ranch is one of the best out there.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
The mission of Affinity Ranch speaks to my heart. The opportunity to provide clients with a safe, encouraging, loving space enriches not only their lives, but mine as well. They are all such a joy.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
I truly can’t pick a favorite animal at the ranch. I think they all serve such a valuable purpose, albeit at differing times. Sometimes it’s the horses in lessons, sometimes it’s the quiet moment of a client standing outside a horse‘s paddock, and sometimes it’s even time spent with the rabbits, goats, or chickens. They all help enhance the unique atmosphere of the ranch.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
With four teenage children, I can’t say that I have much free time! I love to stay busy, but if I am not at the ranch, most often you’ll find me working with my own personal Shire draft horses. They were a long-time dream and one of my greatest joys.
July 2025: Suzanne Opp
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
Hello to our wonderful Affinity Ranch Community!
I have been involved with Affinity Ranch since 2017 (Promise Ranch), first as a sidewalker/horse leader, then Adaptive Riding Program Coordinator and Instructor in Training, then President and Vice President and now, in 2025, back to the role of President. It takes a very specific mindset to settle into a leadership role, and I am so proud to have been able to serve in this way. I believe there are many of our volunteers who could be such an asset to the organization in a leadership position, and might not have even considered the possibility! To any of you thinking about what that might look like, please reach out!
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
All of those who are on our Board, or who have served on our Board have benefited in very personal ways. Our goal as an organization is to encourage growth, and these positions are no exception. For me, this work has changed the trajectory of who I can help. My number two child discovered that they were transgender in 2017, and that discovery inspired me to become a professional, helping other families and individuals through the process of equine assisted coaching/learning. It's not therapy, but can be extremely helpful nonetheless.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
My favorite animals on the ranch are the goats. I had a direct hand in bringing several of their delightful, fun personalities to this work, and I am so proud of what they have been able to do in their time with us. Goats have such an incredible lightness as well as a sense of humor and I love that! Currently Friday is my favorite equine! That might change though, Rufus is coming on strong!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy most of all spending it with my own five horses at home, conducting Equine Assisted Sessions; laying on the couch watching TV with my terror-iers (Westies and Scotties), and a glass of chardonnay at sunset.
June 2025: Kyle Snoich
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
My mom started volunteering here shortly after she moved out to Colorado. When I first moved here she couldn’t wait to take me and show me around! After that initial visit I came back out to help for the Horse Show last October, setting up cameras and helping my dad run a live stream for the event. Being there and seeing how the instructors work with the clients and the positive interactions everyone had with the horses really moved me and motivated me to apply for a position!
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
It means accepting everyone where they’re at in their life with grace in abundance! I feel it is the responsibility of the Ranch to help guide everyone who comes to the facility in how to care for themselves and for others, including the animals that are an integral part of the work we do at the Ranch.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
My favorite animal at the Ranch is Salida! I have a different perspective on the animals than some others, being responsible for feeding and caring for the herd on the weekends, and often see them in a different light. Salida and Preacher are always looking out for each other, and whenever I’m coming out to fill waters, she’ll stop by and allow me to give her some neck scratches. I’ve had the pleasure of Horse Leading for Salida on a couple of occasions, and she has such an attentive nature, where I can really see how much of a fellow employee she is at the Ranch! Her graceful trot, gorgeous coat, and generous attitude of kindness are what make her my favorite animal at the Ranch. (Just don’t tell the rest of the horses…)
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy going to church with my mom, where I sing in the choir and play handbells with the handbell choir. I also enjoy going on trail rides or other horseback riding adventures whenever I can! I run a Dungeons and Dragons game for my friends from Virginia where I’m from, and am looking to start a new game soon with my girlfriend and my sister! My girlfriend, Tessa, has two lovely dogs who enjoy lots of belly rubs and walks, and playing fetch with really cool sticks. She and I also go rock climbing and play in an ultimate frisbee league!
May 2025: Shelby Opel
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I was really drawn to the heart behind what Affinity Ranch does. The idea of blending connection, healing, and animals felt so natural to me—like something I’ve been chasing in different forms throughout my work. When I found out about the ranch, it just clicked. I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
It means showing up with kindness, being real, and holding space for people (and animals) to feel safe, seen, and supported. It's about creating something bigger than ourselves—a space where growth happens in really beautiful, sometimes unexpected ways.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
Oof, hard to choose! I think Preacher would be my favorite animal. He is sweet and engaged everytime I work with him. I have seen him empower my clients and help in their healing journey. I’ve had some sweet, quiet moments with him that I won’t forget.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy riding my own horse, spending time with my daughters and husband, shopping, and reading.
April 2025: Megan Wing
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I was looking for places to volunteer with horses. When I found Affinity Ranch and saw the work they were doing, I wanted to be a part of it any way that I could. The people, the care and training given to the horses, the smile and laughter of our clients continue to inspire me everyday.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
It means showing up for the families we serve; providing space for everyone who walks through our doors to take a break from the outside world and enjoy the moment. To surround them with kindness, support and a sense of community. People helping people!
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
Pumpkin is my favorite orange cat, Duke is my favorite short hair cat and Shawnee is my favorite horse. He is patient, takes care of his rider and is an all around sweetheart!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I say I like to read but really I'm listening to audio books. I love learning. I also enjoy golfing, hiking and just being active outdoors.
March 2025: Jewels Maslin
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
Growing up with horses, I was able to personally experience the amazing impact they can have on people, both emotionally and physically. I have also always loved helping those with special needs, so being able to combine those two things is truly my dream job. The community that makes up Affinity Ranch is the entire reason we are able to help people and is also one of the main reasons I love the Ranch so much. I have been at Affinity Ranch (formerly Praying Hands Ranch) for over 4 years and it continues to be my dream job and is truly like a big family.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
The Affinity Ranch mission is inspiring because we give so many people opportunities of independence, with the help of our horses.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
I couldn't pick just one favorite but I can give you my top 3; Friday, Preacher, and Diamond. I have had the pleasure of working with Preacher and Diamond for over 4 years now and I just truly love their personalities. Preacher has one of the most empathetic personalities I have come across with a horse and I love watching him connect with clients.
Diamond is truly just a sweet, gentle, and straightforward girl. She comes into the arena and always takes care of the clients.
Friday came to the ranch in the past year and I instantly fell in love with his personality. He has what I call a cute old man personality, where you always know what he is thinking. He is so expressive and just a goofy guy that I love working with.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
During my free time I greatly enjoy spending time with my animals, my husband, and friends. I have 9 animals at my house consisting of 3 horses, a one-eyed donkey, a mini pony, 2 dogs, and 2 cats, so they take up quite a bit of time.
February 2025: Tricia Plattner
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I moved over to Affinity Ranch when Promise Ranch joined their community. We moved our operation
from Castle Rock to Parker. It’s been the best thing to happen! It is such a positive, calming, and loving
atmosphere for all of the animals, clients, volunteers, and staff.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
It’s important to always create a connection with our special needs community! The world can
sometimes be an unfriendly place for our friends that have such special qualities and I feel it’s incredibly
important to demonstrate inclusion for everyone! What makes us different is what makes us so special
and nobody should ever be left out of enjoying all the beautiful and fun things that life has to offer.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
My favorite animal is Preacher. He demonstrated something I thought was truly amazing one day. We all know that animals can sense things but I got to see this in action during one of my lessons. I had a student doing liberty work with Preacher. Normally he follows behind her just plodding along following
wherever she goes. But that day, he was literally hooked to her elbow and was not leaving her side. I started paying close attention because this was such different behavior for him. Once the student started walking towards me, I could see her facial expression changing and I knew she was about to have a seizure. Preacher was able to feel this change in my student long before she started to show symptoms! My volunteer, Preacher, and I stood with her until she came out of it and then we all walked her over to the ramp steps to sit. Preacher walked the whole way with us (still at liberty) and stood next to her at the fence until she was ready to leave the arena. This horse is very intuitive which makes him
so special but he’s never been trained to recognize seizures. I’ve never been so impressed in my life!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I’m either sculpting or I am painting. Sculpting comes easy for me so I’m spending a lot of my spare time so I'm teaching myself a variety of water color techniques. If it’s nice outside (because I’m a fair weather rider) I like to ride my horse out to our lease ground and check on the steers or putz around in my flower gardens.
January 2025: Julie Mehrtens
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
As the mother of an autistic teenager and a dedicated equestrian with over 15 years of experience, I sought additional opportunities to give back to the community. My passion for working with individuals with disabilities and animals guided my search. I explored therapeutic programs and horse rescue ranches where I could apply my skills. Upon discovering Affinity Ranch, I found a remarkable alignment of my interests with an extraordinary cause, and I immediately knew this was the place where I wanted to be a part of.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
Affinity Ranch's mission resonates deeply with me. Their commitment to empowering, growing, strengthening, and building courage through the dedication of their horses, staff, and volunteers offers me hope and inspiration. It reassures me that there are exceptional people, programs, and opportunities available for my son and countless others like him.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
Although I haven't become acquainted with many of the horses yet, and I'm sure I would grow fond of most of them, my favorite animals at the moment are the goats. Their enthusiasm when they see you and their loud bleats for attention are heartwarming. They eagerly approach for treats and often lean on your leg when you give them a good scratch. And not to mention their mesmerizing blue eyes are quite captivating.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Besides spending time with my three children, aged 3, 11, and 13, my lifelong passion since the age of six has been horseback riding. Currently, I own an 11-year-old Appendix horse named Howie, who behaves more like a lovable puppy. We primarily work in the arena over jumps, but we have also enjoyed a few trail rides together. We are hoping to start showing together this coming spring/summer in the Hunters Division.
December 2024: Lindsey Schellenger
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I joined the team at Affinity Ranch because I was looking for a way to get involved with horses again. I grew up riding and went on to compete in barrel racing and show jumping, so this was a great way to give back to my community while also being around horses and amazing people!
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
The mission really embodies what horsemanship is to me. I am a huge believer in the power of healing through horses, and am lucky to be surrounded by people who feel the same. Involving members of our community who may not feel accepted in other spaces to have a safe space to learn and grow is so powerful.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
So hard to choose! But Friday is probably my favorite at the moment. I love his sweet demeanor and I also love seeing how much the clients love him.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
While not at the ranch, you can find me working as a Medical Esthetician at the Med Spa Beauty Refined in Parker. I love how both of my jobs allow me to help others feel good about themselves. I'm a Colorado native and love all things outdoors. The rest of my time is typically spent with my boyfriend Tyler and our cat Indie!
November 2024: Petra Kadrnozkova
What inspired you to come to Affinity Ranch?
I have always been passionate about horses. I was lucky to start working with horses when I was 9 years old. Once I was old enough to comprehend all the physical, mental, and emotional benefits horses bring into our lives I knew I wanted to be able to share this with others.
What does the Affinity Ranch mission mean to you?
Our mission is very near and dear to my heart. Sharing horses with others, especially our clients with disabilities which otherwise would not have the opportunity to interact with or ride horses is something that makes my heart smile. From my personal experiences I know how much horses help us with emotional awareness, communication, trust, problem solving, and so many other important life skills.
Who is your favorite animal at the ranch and why?
I love all of the animals at the ranch, however the horses are my favorites. And I make sure to tell every single one of them that he or she is my favorite.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like spending time with my horses, and together we enjoy eventing, polocrosse, and playing with liberty. With my husband and our dog Bailey you will often find us camping, hiking, mountain biking, or traveling somewhere fun.