About Our Team
GAIT is proud to have a staff full of accomplished and dedicated individuals that donate their time and talents to grow this program.
At the heart of our success stories are the dedicated members of the GAIT staff and volunteers. Their unwavering commitment, expertise, and compassion play an indispensable role in the achievements of our students. With a deep understanding of equine therapy and adaptive riding techniques, our staff works tirelessly to create personalized experiences that cater to each student's unique needs and goals. Their guidance and support not only facilitate physical and emotional growth but also inspire confidence and a sense of accomplishment in our students. Together, with your continued support, we strive to build more success stories and change lives through the power of equine-assisted activities.
Margaret Rich
Founder & Path Instructor
At the helm of GAIT is Margaret Rich, the visionary founder of GAIT and owner of Green Acres Ranch Inc. With a remarkable career spanning over 50 years, Margaret is a seasoned horsewoman renowned for her extensive expertise as an international judge, trainer, breeder, and PATH certified instructor. Her unwavering commitment to the equestrian world and her dedication to improving lives through equine therapy have been pivotal in shaping the success and positive outcomes achieved by GAIT.
Liz henry
Path Instructor
Liz holds a master’s degree in Special Education and has taught students with cognitive, physical, and emotional disabilities for more than 25 years. She grew up riding and working with horses and has never stopped.
As an Instructor at GAIT, Liz combines her love of teaching with her strong conviction that therapeutic riding and time with horses improve people’s lives, inside and out. Veterans are no exception: her husband is a disabled veteran, and her son currently serves in the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.
PEYTON HULSEY
Program Director
Peyton brings together two lifelong passions: horses and helping others grow. She has spent seven years working with and riding horses, with a primary focus on hunter/jumpers, and she shares her days with her own horse, TiVo.
Her path to GAIT started at home. Peyton grew up surrounded by special education, where her mom works as a mild/moderate special education teacher. That early exposure shaped her calling, and she went on to spend four years as an Intensive Behavioral Aide, supporting individuals in reaching their personal goals.
At GAIT, Peyton combines her horsemanship with her experience in behavioral support to create safe, encouraging sessions where riders and horses can connect, build confidence, and thrive.
Gabriel Garcia
Consultant
Gabriel Garcia served in the United States Marine Corps from 2002 to 2017. His military occupational specialties included Special Communications Signals Collection Operator and Information Operations Specialist. His service includes deployments with 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Headquarters Group and 1st Radio Battalion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Iraqi Enduring Freedom. Gabriel joins GAIT as a consultant with the belief that Equestrian Therapy could be very beneficial to the veteran community. It would provide an atmosphere free of judgement where individuals can adjust to their many life changes that came from their military service.
“I am passionate about helping people of all ages reach their full potential and believe horses are the perfect catalyst for recovery and well-being.”
