I’m a native of Elyria, Ohio and became Executive Director of Helping Horse, in August of 2017.  After moving to Raleigh, in 1997, with my family, I fell in love with the area. I love to hike the parks, waterfalls and mountains of beautiful North Carolina. 

I joined Helping Horse as a volunteer, in 2008, quickly moving from Side Walker to Horse Leader, to Volunteer Coordinator and Instructor. In 2015, while continuing my roles as Volunteer Coordinator and Instructor, my husband and I moved to the farm, serving as Caretakers for over three years.  

My background as the Director of Human Resources for the Sheraton Imperial has given me unique expertise and skills that translate well to the Executive Director role. I retired in June of 2017, after more than 20 years with the Sheraton. 

I’ve always had a love for horses, and that’s what initially drew me to volunteering with Helping Horse. However, the riders stole my heart so completely on my first day of volunteering, that I knew I wanted to be more involved in fostering their success. Seeing the successes and joy of our riders is what keeps me so passionate about all that is being accomplished at Helping Horse. 

In addition to my career experience in Human Resources, I bring a heart for people and animals, as well as a balanced, analytical perspective, coupled with the organizational skills needed to help move Helping Horse forward to meet its goals. I’m excited for the future growth of the program, as Helping Horse continues to serve the special needs community, through the positive opportunities we provide to so many riders and their families. 

– Jackie Saxton

Executive Director