🌟 Meet the Heart of Stella’s Chance! 🌟

At Stella's Chance, our Horsemanship Coaches, Guides, Working Students and Volunteers, are the heart and soul of everything we do! They bring passion, expertise, and dedication to help each participant grow, learn, and have fun along the way.

🐴 OUR HORSEMANSHIP COACHES 🐴
Our instructors teach all things horsemanship—from basic horse care to advanced riding techniques. Whether you're just starting out or ready to refine your skills, they make learning fun, engaging, and confidence-boosting for all ages and abilities!

🌿 OUR GUIDES 🌿
Our guides work with DDA clients, helping them gain confidence, learn life skills, and have a blast! Whether it’s nature walks, team-building games, craft sessions, or community outings, they create exciting and meaningful experiences that promote personal growth.

🛠️ WORKING STUDENTS 🛠️
Our Working Students are hands-on helpers! They assist instructors with horse care, prepping horses for lessons, and supporting riders during sessions. It’s a great way to learn, grow, and gain real experience in the world of horsemanship!

💙 VOLUNTEERS 💙
Our amazing volunteers make a huge impact! Whether it’s helping with barn chores, assisting during lessons, organizing events, or lending a hand at special activities, we couldn’t do it without them! Volunteering at Stella’s Chance is a rewarding way to give back, learn new skills, and be part of something truly special

🌟 At Stella’s Chance, we believe in learning, growing, and having fun—together! 🌟

  • Assistant Horsemanship Coach &Guide

    Chelsey McPherson has been making a difference in people’s lives for over 10 years! She helps our DDA clients get out into the community, find fun activities they love, and feel empowered to try new things. As their advocate and supporter, she makes sure everyone gets to do what’s important to them. Plus, she’s been fluent in sign language for over a decade, making her even more awesome at connecting with others!

    But that’s not all—Chelsey is also a passionate horse lover and instructor at Stella’s Chance! 🐴 Her horse journey started at just 11 years old, and by 16, she had her own horses. She’s spent years learning, riding, and caring for these incredible animals. Chelsey even served two seasons in mounted patrol (and plans on a third!), proving just how dedicated she is. Today, she helps care for 10 horses and is always expanding her knowledge. She believes horses have a special way of boosting mental health, bringing joy, and creating amazing bonds.

    At Stella’s Chance, Chelsey is our Young Riders Instructor, working with kiddos ages 4-7. She also guides some of our Equine Explorers and mentors our Working Students. With her energy, passion, and dedication, she’s an irreplaceable part of our team—and we’re so lucky to have her! 🎉

    #Horses #MeetOurInstructor #StellasChance #HorseLove

  • Program Director & Horsemanship Coach

    With over 30 years of experience in teaching and coaching horsemanship, I’ve been helping riders of all skill levels gain confidence and develop their abilities since 2004! My approach is all about natural horsemanship, making sure each student learns at their own pace while building a strong bond with their horse. 🐴

    My riding background is diverse and full of adventure! I have experience in:
    🏇 Wilderness trail guiding – leading riders through breathtaking landscapes
    🏇 Dressage – focusing on precision, balance, and harmony with the horse
    🏇 Obstacle course competitions – challenging both horse and rider with fun, confidence-building courses
    🏇 Ranch sorting – putting teamwork to the test in a fast-paced cattle event

    But my passion doesn’t stop there! Since 2004, I’ve worked with individuals with disabilities, using therapeutic horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, and supported employment to create inclusive experiences. In 2017, I became a certified WA Behavior Technician, using ABA therapy to make our programs even more engaging and supportive. I’m also proud to be a contracted service provider with the WA DDA, offering a variety of horse-related and community programs.

    With the support of incredible friends and colleagues, I founded Stella’s Chance to combine my love for horses and community impact. Our programs not only teach horsemanship but also encourage personal growth, independence, and inclusion. Beyond the barn, we also engage in fun, off-the-farm activities to help participants connect with their community.

    I’ve had the privilege of creating and leading programs in partnership with amazing organizations like:
    ✅ Washington State School for the Blind
    ✅ Battle Ground School District Special Ed Programs
    ✅ Washington State DDA & DSHS
    ✅ Catholic Community Services & ARC of Clark County
    ✅ WSU Vancouver, Vancouver Parks & Rec
    ✅ Children’s Home Society & Clark County School Districts
    ✅ Royal Ridges Retreat & Silver Buckle Ranch

    ✅ Event Coordinator

    • WA St. Horse Expo coordinator 2010-2013

    • NW WA Fair - Equine - Event Coordinator 2011-2015

    These partnerships have given me the opportunity to work with incredible people, create life-changing programs, and make horsemanship accessible to all. Whether in the saddle or out in the community, my mission is to empower, inspire, and help others grow—one stride at a time! 💙

    #StellasChance #MeetOurDirector #InclusiveHorsemanship #HorsesChangeLives #TrailRiding #Dressage #ObstacleCourses #RanchSorting