Meet Our Instructors!

Allie Barnett

Hello! My name is Allie! I am the CEO, a PATH Certified Instructor, foster/adoptive mom, registered nurse and certified social/emotional learning coach. I have 22+ yrs experience in this field! I love instructing lessons at Justin's Place because I always walk away having grown in knowledge, appreciation or gratefulness in some way. I enjoy holding space and quiet for kiddos who are sensitive to sensory overload and finding creative ways to be silly and bring them joy.

Lauren Harris

Hi! My name is Lauren. I first joined as a volunteer in 2021, became an instructor in 2023, and stepped into the Program Director role in Fall of 2024. I've loved being part of this community every step of the way! One of my favorite parts of teaching is building relationships with kids over multiple sessions and getting to see their smiles each time we reconnect. A strength I bring to my role is empathy, and I strive to make sure everyone I work with feels seen, supported, and encouraged.

Erin Hall

Hi! My name is Erin. As a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and the Stable Moments Coordinator at Justin’s Place, I have the privilege of teaching and learning alongside our horses and students. I’m also a CASA volunteer and the mom of five adult children, including two who joined our family through adoption. I love teaching with horses and seeing the confidence, joy, and “I did it!” moments they help bring out in our kids.

Riley Sigler

My name is Riley. I have a love for sports and recreation including gymnastics, horse back riding, vaulting, and really anything outdoors. I have been a PATH Certified Instructor since 2022 and serve on staff at Justin’s Place as an Instructor and Equestrian Vaulting Coach. One of my favorite parts of teaching at Justin’s Place is watching kids connect with horses and in turn, learn new skills whether that be a physical skill or a social-emotional skill. Witnessing a child grow and learn with the support of a horse or animal is so special and a gift to get to be part of.

Sarah Yost

Hi! My name is Sarah! I’m a PATH certified instructor and have been teaching at Justin’s Place for 1 year. I love teaching and creating a space for kids to learn and grow through horses. I get excited about my job when I see my kids making progress towards their goals! I really enjoy working with the new Emerging Equestrians program and watching riders gain more confidence and independence in their riding skill.

McKenna Phelps

Hi! My name is McKenna Phelps, and I am a PATH Certified Instructor. I have been at Justin's Place since fall 2023. One of my favorite things about teaching is watching riders learn, grow, and achieve their goals while experiencing the joy of riding. Every time I teach, participants remind me that there is peace and joy in every moment when we take the time to notice it.

Benj Stout

Hello! My name is Benjamin! Though I also go by Benj or Benji. I am an Instructor in Training, a Vaulting Coach In Training, and am studying at Asbury University with a major in Equine-Assisted Services. I love working with kids to be with them as they discover and learn their amazing abilities and figure out how to give their best in everything they do. I especially enjoy seeing kiddos break through a barrier and experience profound happiness and accomplishment.

Estera Dunn

Hello my name is Estera! I am currently at Asbury receiving my degree in Equine Assisted Services! I love adventures and traveling around the world to see new places! I love teaching at Justin’s Place because I am able to grow with the kids and build relationships! It’s amazing to be part of a team that truly wants to make a difference and pushes me to be better!

Meet Our Farm Team

Abianna Stiefel

My name is Abianna Stiefel and I am the equine and farm manager at Justin’s Place. I am a graduate from Asbury University's equine training program with a minor in business. I love getting to watch the horses and participants at Justin’s Place interact, learn, and bring joy to one another! I am so blessed to get to train and care for these incredible animals.

Anna DeLoach

Hi! My name is Anna DeLoach and I've been volunteering with Justin's Place for 4 years now and riding/working with horses for 12 years. I'm about to graduate Asbury University with a Bachelor's Degree in Equine-Assisted Services, and I'm beginning the process of becoming a Certified Instructor. One of my favorite parts of working at Justin's Place is getting to work alongside such wonderful people who are so caring and supportive and driven by a deep and genuine love for others and desire to help others. Getting to work with such wonderful animals and serve amazing kiddos is icing on the cake!

Meet Justin’s Place Staff