Katrina lives with her husband, John, on his family homestead Val Vista Ranch in Springbank, Alberta. John’s Mother, Irene Robinson, planted the seed of the charity in Katrina’s heart when Irene had to leave the ranch and live in a nursing home in nearby Calgary. Irene was happiest at the end of her life whenever she got the chance to go back to Val Vista Ranch. The Robinson’s envisioned a place where those in need could experience nature in a western setting – and ROARR was born. A native of New Mexico, Katrina has lived in Calgary for 30 years and owned a corporate event management company for 10 years. She has studied fundraising at Boston University and is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. After many years of online college courses, Katrina fulfilled her dream of obtaining her Bachelor in Psychology Counselling in 2017.

Merleen has spent her entire career working with groups of people, beginning with the study and counselling of patients with chronic pain at the University of Calgary Headache Research. She spent the next decade, teaching and facilitating International Corporate Leaders in group dynamics and authenticity with Young Presidents Organization. She recently became a Louise Hay Facilitator and Coach for You Can Heal Your Life ®. Merleen is also certified as an Adventure in Wisdom Coach®; a comprehensive program that works with children from ages 7-13 to promote and maintain positive self-esteem and confidence while navigating the challenges of adolescence. Merleen is the official facilitator of our Kingsley’s Labyrinth and looks forward to bringing the Labyrinth to ROARR’s future programs.

Deanne grew up in Calgary and moved to Springbank where she now lives with her husband and two kids. Deanne has experience working with kids for many years as a dance teacher and volunteering at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Deanne is a Reiki Master, which is used for stress reduction, relaxation and also promotes healing. Deanne has enjoyed raising her kids for the past several years with the ability to be involved in their school and sports. Her passion for horses and children inspired her to become a Certified Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator as well as obtaining a certification in Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Niki Flundra, trick rider and liberty trainer, is a talented performer who travels extensively throughout North America performing her specialty act at the top events in professional rodeo. Hailing originally from the small town of Rockyford, Alberta, Niki has performed 12 times at the Calgary Stampede. Niki has also performed at every major rodeo in Canada and has had the honor and privilege of performing for the Canadian Prime Minister, the President of Mexico and the President of the United States of America. Niki is also a stunt woman in films such as Heartland, Shanghai Noon, Rat Race, and Little House on the Prairie. Niki is living her dream and is currently taking courses towards becoming a therapeutic riding instructor for children with special needs.

Cathy and her husband Ted, live on a property west of Cochrane with their horses. Cathy not only has a passion for working with horses but with children as well. She has been on staff as a Registered Nurse at Alberta Children's Hospital for over 40 years, with a speciality in Hemodialysis. Cathy came to River Cross Ranch several years ago at an open house and has been involved in the transformation into ROARR. She plays an active role in caring for the horses and volunteering with the seniors.

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Info to come.

Deborah grew up in Ontario, spent much of her career and life in Yellowknife, NWT and now resides in Canmore. Deborah is a geologist by training and has worked in the private sector, the public sector and most recently in the international development sector. As a mom of two boys, she has a lot of experience with non-for-profit boards. Deborah has a passion for all things equine, a strong interest in supporting seniors to live their best life possible and supporting youth at risk. ROARR is a perfect fit for Deborah to bring all those interests together. Deborah is happiest outdoors, whether that is spending time with equine friends or hiking or skiing the mountains.

Info to come.