Horses, Hope and Healing
Among the greatest misconceptions in our society today is the notion that a person can be beyond saving. This narrative is especially destructive when an individual begins to believe it about themselves. Prolonged exposure to incarceration, addiction, or untreated mental illness frequently shifts a person's perspective, leading them to view their situation not as a consequence of their unlearned skillset and their own choices and actions, but as proof of an inherent, irreparable deficiency within themselves.
At New Reins, we are individuals who have lived through that very season of despair—believing we were inherently less than, unable to fit into 'normal' society, and destined for a painful, destructive life. However, we are also proof of what happens when that narrative is broken. Having been equipped with the tools to recognize that lie, we have been taught the skills to make better choices and build productive, connected lives. We were never deficient or permanently damaged; we were lost. Now, our mission at New Reins is to share those same skills with others who are still searching for their way back to themselves."
Our Board
Julia Montagnet: Founder & Board President
Julia brings a diverse background in equine therapy, coaching, and organizational leadership to New Reins. Certified through PATH International since 2017, she previously owned and operated Island Center Farm on Vashon Island, WA. Her technical expertise includes human and equine massage therapy, coaching dressage up to 2nd Level, and horse/rider biomechanics. Complementing her field experience is a 26-year non-profit career, having served as a Finance Manager, Development Director, and Executive Director. Between September 2025 and May 2026, Julia mentored Madison Meade, Head of the Equine Department at Westonwood Ranch in Freeport, FL. Inspired by the personal healing she experienced through horses, Julia created New Reins to share that same opportunity with others working to turn their lives around.
Wendy Baggett: Treasurer
Wendy has a long history in finance, working in banking for twenty years and currently works at First National Bank of Decatur County. She met Julia while volunteering at the equine program at Westonwood Ranch.
Stacy Waterous: Secretary
Stacy has decades of experience working in the Therapeutic Riding field including developing an Equine Facilitated Learning program for veterans. She is long a long time eventer and trainer and runs the Life Horse at Grandview Farm facility in Milton, FL. She has written a book on her research and experience working with veterans in the equine industry titled: Cellular Echoes; Trauma, Memory and the Biology of Inheritance.
Madison Meade: Board Member
Madison is a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and the Equine Specialist at Westonwood Ranch. By combining her background of behavior analysis and equine care, Madison is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and impactful learning environment. She firmly believes everyone deserves a second chance and that healing & growth are possible when individuals are met with compassion, accountability, and hope. Once curriculum development is complete and our programs are set to open, Madison will transition into the role of Lead Instructor.
Heather Simerson: Board Member
Heather Simerson is honored to serve as a board member and is passionate about helping others find hope, healing, and a second chance. Having personally overcome addiction and experienced incarceration, she understands the importance of compassion, support, and opportunities for lasting change. Heather believes that healing can happen in many forms and is inspired by the transformative power of equine therapy for high-risk youth and incarcerated individuals. She joined the board as a way to give back, encourage others on their journey, and help create opportunities for people to discover their own strength, purpose, and potential. With a background in animal welfare and a lifelong love of animals, Heather is committed to supporting the organization's mission and making a positive impact in her community
Learn More About Our Programs
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