Founder, Karen Sanchez and her beloved Shane
Shane always ensured a safe and supportive experience for our participants.
At the heart of The Shane Center lies a quiet garden marking the resting place of Shane, the remarkable horse who started it all. Shane came into my life when I was nine years old and stayed by my side for 36 unforgettable years. He taught me everything I know about horses, but more importantly, he taught me to be brave—and to listen.
Shane was spirited and smart, with a knack for letting you know exactly how he felt. He managed to unseat me more than once—once even mid-jump during a lesson—then casually finished the course like he was auditioning for the Olympics… solo. That was Shane’s way: always teaching, always leading. He later carried me to the preliminary level three-day event championship at the Kentucky Horse Park, where he cleared fences that even Olympians feared—with flair, and a buck for good measure.
As he aged, Shane became a wise and trusted lesson horse. He adjusted his energy to each rider’s needs—gentle with the timid, playful with the over confident—and helped shape countless young equestrians. Even in retirement, he wandered the barn freely, visiting with guests and keeping an eye on things like the old soul he was.
The only things that ever rattled him were fireworks, gunshots, and the click of a camera. But even in fear, Shane’s heart never wavered. At one show, with gunfire in the distance, he calmed a nervous rider and carried every child that day when the other horses wouldn’t settle. That was Shane—steadfast, sensitive, and always in charge.
He was more than a horse. He was my partner, my teacher, and the soul behind our mission.
~ Karen Sanchez, Founder
Our Board of Directors serves as the guiding force behind our mission. This dedicated group of volunteers provides strategic leadership, financial oversight, and governance to ensure our organization remains focused, transparent, and impactful. Each board member brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to advancing our cause. Together, they help shape our vision, support our leadership team, and ensure we remain accountable to our community and supporters.
Joel Sanchez, President
John Hinton, Assistant Treasurer
Angie Kaiser, Secretary
Vicki Cole
Erin Humphrey
Jessica Kenimer
Pete Smith
Dr. Laurie Gallatin
Karen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI), Advanced Instructor (ATRI), and Mentor. A lifelong equestrian, she judged at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, earned an “A” rating from the U.S. Pony Club, and spent over a decade in 4-H, including five years as a club advisor. Karen currently competes her horse, Quarter Note, in USDF regional and national dressage competitions and recently earned her USDF Bronze Medal. She has trained with renowned horsemen including Ray Hunt, Walter Zettl, Jimmy Wofford, Jessie Peters, Kathy and John Baar, Pat & Linda Parelli and Jennifer Truett.
Emily holds a Bachelor of Arts in Equine Business Management with a concentration in Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies from Otterbein University. She began her journey with The Shane Center as an intern in 2019, later serving as a lesson aide, and officially earned her PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) credential in early 2022. As Program Director, Emily brings passion, dedication, and hands-on experience to every aspect of our programming. She also boards her horse, Marlin, at The Shane Center, where they enjoy trail rides and time in the playground.
Mindy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Arts and Humanities with a focus in Dance Therapy. She brings over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in therapeutic and recreational programming for individuals of all ages and abilities. In addition to her work as a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI), Mindy has extensive expertise in grant writing and office management. Outside of work, she enjoys competing in horse shows and trail riding with her daughter. Mindy and her family live on a horse-powered farm, where they work alongside their Percheron draft horses.
Amanda is a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) and a graduate of Otterbein University, where she earned a double major in Equine Business Management and Business Administration & Management, along with a minor in Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies. Amanda is passionate about training and competing in dressage, especially with her horse, Fancy. Outside the barn, she enjoys reading and playing the violin, blending her love of animals, learning, and the arts.
Karen Sanchez
Emily Kinzer
Mindy Ingalls
Amanda Bachman
Albert is a 19 year old Haflinger gelding who was purchased by The Shane Center in April 2021. Albert’s purchase was made possible through a very generous grant from the Youth Philanthropy Initiate of the Knox County Foundation! Albert was born on April 3,2006 and he has lived in Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri before relocating to Ohio. Standing at 15 hands and weighing 1,000 lbs, this big cuddle bug is known for his love of attention—and his favorite word is “WHOA!”
Brie is a 21-year-old Belgian/Quarter Horse cross mare who became part of our herd in September 2021 as a gift from Serenity Farm. While her exact birthday is unknown, her kind heart and sweet nature are unmistakable. Before joining us, Brie worked as a lesson horse at a hunter/jumper barn. She’s eager to please and as sweet as sugar—we’re so lucky to have her!
Jethro is a 19-year-old miniature donkey who has been our beloved program mascot since 2014. He absolutely adores children and, despite his small size, holds his own among the big horses. Jethro brings joy and charm to everyone he meets.
Knut is a 27-year-old Norwegian Fjord gelding who joined our program in December 2012, along with his half-brother Toby, thanks to the support of generous donors. Born on April 19, 1998, Knut is sensitive, friendly, and fun-loving. His gentle nature makes him a favorite among riders and volunteers alike.
Lightning Bolt is a 34-year-old POA (Pony of the Americas) gelding who has been part of our program for over 14 years. Cute as a button and gentle enough for our tiniest riders, he still keeps up with the big horses. We lovingly call him our “little big man.”
Maggie, also known as Magical Lights WRF, is a 23-year-old Haflinger on loan from the Ingalls family. Born on January 31, 2002, Maggie brings a wealth of experience from her years in 4-H and the Haflinger show circuit. She’s a girly-girl who loves hugs, kisses, and anything pink. Find her favorite scratch spot, and she might just kiss you back! We’re honored to have her in our program.
Super Nova is a 7-year-old Thoroughbred cross adopted by Karen Sanchez from the Last Chance Corral when she was just two weeks old. Nova brings youthful energy and a bright future to our herd. She is known as our "perfect princess".
Stevie is a 28-year-old Fjord gelding born in Canada on April 24, 1997. He joined us in 2010, made possible by a foundation grant. Trained to drive and weighing around 1,300 lbs, Stevie is as wide as he is tall. His calm, gentle nature makes him a favorite here at Willow Farm.
Toby is a 27-year-old Norwegian Fjord gelding and half-brother to Knut. He joined our program in December 2012. Though now retired from riding due to age-related soundness issues, Toby still loves to greet visitors and teach grooming. Born on April 17, 1998, he’s sensitive, friendly, and full of personality.
Truffles is a 20-year-old American Quarter Horse mare who came to us as a gift from Serenity Farm in September 2021. Born on June 6, 2005, she has lived in Maryland, Illinois, and Ohio. Truffles is sweet, gentle, and well-trained—making her a favorite among students and volunteers.