Staff
We have an incredible team of hearts, hands, and hooves that make Alatheia possible.
Nancy Grette
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Nancy grew up with horses riding through the hills of western Washington. That love continued while raising her own family with husband Glenn. The Grettes spent many summers riding and packing in the backcountry of Eastern Washington on their herd of horses that included 3 fjords. In June of 2010 the Grettes lives were forever changed when they gave a ride to a five year old girl with special needs. The magic between the horse and rider was unmistakable and the vision for Alatheia was born. A year later Alatheia opened its doors to 12 riders with special needs using 3 incredibly special fjord horses (Frid, Blakken, and Sindre) and 20 dedicated volunteers.
Nancy is a certified instructor through PATH International. Teaching and interacting with our special family of riders and volunteers, and loving on our herd of horses is the greatest pleasure of her life.
Anna Bryant
Therapeutic Riding Program Director
Anna spent her childhood riding at horse summer camps across the Pacific Northwest and achieved her BS Equine Science from Montana State in 2009. She went on to study and compete in dressage in the Deep South before joining Alatheia in 2018. Between 2019 and 2022, she became a PATH Certified Riding Instructor and Mentor, an E3A Practitioner and an EAGALA Equine Specialist.
The classical training Anna received during her competition years lends itself well to adaptive and therapeutic riding; she delights in helping her students advance and mentoring new instructors. Being a part of the Alatheia team has broadened her definition of what success can look like, and she has never felt more fulfilled in a professional role.
Outside of the barn, Anna can be found riding her own Fjord, cooking for loved ones, making art and spending time with her husband Beau.
Jill Allemandi
Bookkeeper & Riding Instructor
Jill’s love for horses began early. She purchased her first horse at just 13 years old and has been devoted to them ever since. She and her husband owned and operated a cattle ranch, where her connection to animals and the land continued to grow. After raising her family, Jill returned to her passion by volunteering at a local equine therapy center, which eventually closed. In 2016, she found a new home at Alatheia and has been a dedicated part of the team ever since.
As a PATH Certified Riding Instructor and trained EAGALA Equine Specialist, Jill wears many hats at Alatheia. She serves as our onsite bookkeeper, teaches lessons to her trusted riders, and plays an important role in training new therapy horses. Jill also contributed early on as a volunteer board member, offering both leadership and hands-on support to help Alatheia grow into what it is today.
Jill often reflects on how much she receives through her time at Alatheia. “Just as many others have found, I receive so much more than I give,” she says. “The riders and their families have taught me so much about patience, acceptance to life’s ups and downs, compassion, and unconditional love.” For Jill, Alatheia is more than a place to serve, it’s a second family, filled with purpose, connection, and heart.
Leanna Shannon
Riding Instructor
Leanna joined Alatheia Riding Center in May 2021, fresh off the boat from graduation at Washington State University, where she studied Equine Science. Already a seasoned therapeutic riding instructor; she achieved PATH certification after only a few short months at Alatheia.
Leanna adores her students and excels at bringing contagious smiles to all her lessons. In her free time, you’ll find her rock climbing, hiking, fishing or singing at local wineries.
Annie Christensen
Equine Care Manager & Riding Instructor
Annie grew up on a small rescue farm, where her love for animals, especially horses, began at a young age. She started riding at four years old and stayed active in FFA and 4-H throughout high school. She went on to study Sports Medicine at the University of Idaho, where she also led an equestrian vaulting club, combining her interests in health, movement, and horsemanship.
In March 2022, Annie began her internship at Alatheia and quickly became a valued part of the team. She earned her PATH Certified Riding Instructor credential in May 2024 and graduated from the Equine Natural Movement Institute that same year. She is now preparing to take her board certification exam in July 2025.
When she’s not at the barn, Annie enjoys gaming and taking trail rides with her two horses, Shock and Sadie.
Anne Marasa
Facilities Manager & Riding Instructor
Anne brings a rich background in outdoor education and a lifelong passion for teaching. She has taught alpine and cross-country skiing to adults and children, and has also coached soccer, softball, and swimming, showing her commitment to helping others grow through movement and connection.
A lifelong horse lover, Anne spent her childhood drawing horses and dreaming of owning one. That dream came true when she moved to Leavenworth and welcomed her first horse. Today, she feels deeply honored to be part of the Alatheia team.
Anne finds immense joy in teaching and learning alongside her students. The laughter and smiles shared during each ride remind her daily of the power of connection between horse and rider.
Stef Archibald
Volunteer Coordinator & Riding Instructor
Stef grew up in the Chicago suburbs and learned how to ride English as a kid. After college she moved to Anchorage, Alaska and worked as a social worker. When her husband started medical school in Yakima, Stef began volunteering at the Pegasus Project PATH barn. It was here she discovered her love of therapeutic riding.
Stef and her family moved to Wenatchee in 2021 and she immediately began volunteering at Alatheia. She has loved every minute spent at the barn and can often be seen hanging out with her favorite Fjord, Marta.
“Wenatchee has been a wonderful place for our family to land after many years of moving. My children are thriving and I am so proud to have been accepted into this community. Alatheia is my happy place, and I truly enjoy working hand in hand with all our wonderful volunteers. I am excited to be a part of the Alatheia team as we continue to grow.”
Nathan Main
Ranch Hands Coordinator
Nathan, born and raised in Wenatchee, is a 6-year Army Veteran who served from 2010 to 2016. After his military service, he earned degrees in accounting and business from Wenatchee Valley College, followed by a degree in Health Services Administration with a focus on Long-Term Care, along with two years Disabilities Studies from Eastern Washington University.
Nathan’s journey with Alatheia began in early 2024 through the EAGALA program. After completing it, he joined the Veterans Horsemanship program and quickly became a vital part of the Ranch Hands team, dedicating 20 to 30 hours each week. His deep connection with the Ranch Hands and commitment to our mission led to his role as Ranch Hands Coordinator.
Today, Nathan supports facilities, welcomes fellow Veterans to the Warriors & Horses program, and continues to build meaningful relationships throughout the barn. His steady presence and dedication make him an invaluable part of the Alatheia team.
Alatheia’s Equine Partners
Marta
"Mistress of the House"
Marta is one of Alatheia’s best trained Fjords and is perfect for those riders ready for more challenges. She is a small, quick, and athletic mare that sports a fuzzy forelock with a red tint and usually sports a fancy haircut in her mane. She has a big personal bubble and likes her space!
Vesla
"Little Girl"
Vesla is one of our most athletic Fjords. Vesla works well with both independent riders and riders who need physical support. She has super sweet personality and thinks she is a human!
Julle
"Youthful"
Julle has a uniquely sweet disposition and steady stride which makes per perfect for our youngest and more challenged riders.
Andor
"Thor’s Eagle"
Andor is a curious, outgoing gelding. Andor is very playful with the other horses, and is very tolerant in the arena. He is graciously leased to Alatheia Riding Center by Judy Phelps
Lita
"Little One"
Lita joined the Alatheia herd in the Fall of 2018 after a long career of trail riding in Stehekin. She is our most petite Fjord, who loves to be around other horses and on the move.
Sølvi
"Silver Queen"
Sølvi is easily recognized by her striking grey dun color. She joined the herd in Summer 2019 and has a very laid back, relaxed personality and is smart and atheletic.
Kjeks
"Biscuit" or "Cookie"
Kjeks is the youngest of the Alatheia Fjords. He joined the herd in Fall 2019 and as a youngster is undergoing training for therapy work with hopes to start in the program in the fall of 2022. He was generously donated to Alatheia by the Clark and Jean Van Der Linden family in Winter 2020.
Odde
"Inspiration"
Odde, short of Odden, is the tallest member of our herd. Odde is curious, affectionate and tries very hard to please his riders. Odde was generously donated by Jon and Deb Keevy in 2020.
Johann
"God is Gracious"
Johan joined the herd in May 2022 and is known for his quiet, steady, and sweet nature. His calm presence helps riders feel safe, supported, and at ease.
Our Alatheia Angels – Foundational Horses Who Led the Way
Frid - In Memoriam
"Beautiful Beloved"
Frid, our beloved matriarch, was the quiet and benevolent queen of the herd. As one of Alatheia’s Founding Three, alongside her siblings Blakken and Sindre, she helped shape the very heart of this work from the beginning.
From the start, Frid carried a presence that was both gentle and deeply intuitive. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with our most challenged riders in ways that often felt unspoken. When introduced to an individual in a wheelchair, she would softly lower her head into their lap, nuzzling with a tenderness that felt as though she was truly “reading” their needs and meeting them exactly where they were.
Frid was steady, quiet, and unexcitable. She offered a sense of calm that allowed riders to feel safe, seen, and supported. Time and again, she created space for breakthroughs, trust, and connection, simply by being who she was.
As the matriarch of the herd, Frid carried a quiet leadership. Through her presence, she helped shape the energy of the herd, modeling patience, softness, and steadiness for both horses and humans alike.
She could be recognized by her long, often-braided forelock, her thick, wavy tail, and the distinct “Nike” cowlick along her neck. These small, familiar details became part of the many memories held by those who had the privilege of knowing her.
While we mourn the loss of our sweet Frid, we are comforted in knowing her legacy will live on. She touched countless lives and helped shape both the horses and humans who carry this work forward. She was more than a therapy horse. She was a teacher, a healer, a steady and guiding presence.
Run free, Frid, with your siblings Blakken and Sindre. And Nils and Rikky too. You are forever part of Alatheia’s heart and foundation.
Sindre - In Memoriam
"Spark Sprayer"
Sindre came to the Grette family as a spirited, untrained 3-year-old. By the time he was four, he was confidently carrying their children on horse-packing adventures deep into the wilderness. Over the years, he grew into a pillar of quiet strength and wisdom. These qualities made him an extraordinary therapy horse.
Sindre was known for his calm and gentle nature. Steady and patient, he carried our riders with calm reliability. He was a safe harbor for so many, helping riders and supporting Veterans. And taught countless new volunteers what it means to partner with a horse.
As the elder of his herd, Sindre also carried a sacred responsibility. He mentored the younger horses who came to Alatheia, teaching them the rhythms of our work, important herd dynamics, and how to hold space for the humans who needed them most.
While we mourn the loss of our sweet Sindre, we are comforted in knowing his legacy will live on. He touched countless lives, guided many of the horses now serving our riders, and left behind memories we will always cherish. He was more than a therapy horse. He was a teacher, a healer, a friend, and a partner.
Run free, Sindre with your siblings Blakken and Frid. And Nils and Rikky too. You are forever part of Alatheia’s heart and foundation.
Blakken - In Memoriam
"Helper"
Blakken, our beloved “Steady Eddy,” and affectionately known as Mr. B, was the one who quietly led the way.
As one of Alatheia’s Founding Three, alongside his siblings Frid and Sindre, Blakken helped establish the foundation of this work and the standard of care that continues today. His presence defined what it meant to be a therapy horse.
Sure, patient, steady, and oh so kind, Blakken carried our most fragile riders with dignity, grace, and compassion. He was deeply trusted by all who knew him. Time and again, he offered a safe and steady place for riders to grow, to find confidence, and to experience connection.
Blakken was part of the Grette family for twenty years, ten of those spent faithfully serving in the Alatheia program. Over the course of his career, he carefully carried hundreds of riders with special needs. It is estimated that Blakken gave at least 3,000 therapy rides, along with countless moments of joy, courage, and breakthrough for those he served.
Through his quiet strength, Mr. B gave his riders independence, balance, coordination, and confidence. He met each individual with patience and consistency, allowing them to feel capable, strong, and seen.
While we mourn the loss of our dear Blakken, we are filled with gratitude for the life he lived and the path he helped create. He taught us about purpose and passion, and about the quiet power of simply showing up with a steady heart.
Run free, Blakken, with your siblings Frid and Sindre. And Nils and Rikky too. You are forever part of Alatheia’s heart and foundation.
Rikky - In Memoriam
"Noble Leader"
Rikky, our sweet and spirited “Rickster,” was a horse whose heart and willingness knew no bounds.
From the moment he stepped into his role, Rikky gave everything he had to his riders. There was a nobility in him, a quiet devotion that showed up in every ride, every step, and every connection he made. He carried his riders with generosity and heart, offering not just his strength, but his spirit.
Rikky brought a unique energy to the herd. He was willing, eager, and full of life. While he served with steadiness and care in his work, he also held onto a joyful spark that made him unforgettable to those who knew him.
He especially loved time on the hills above Alatheia, where his personality came alive. Even as he aged, Rikky could often be found outpacing the younger horses, fully embracing the freedom of the open space and loving every minute of it.
Up until the end, Rikky remained happy and healthy, a reflection of the life he lived and the joy he carried within him.
While we mourn the loss of our beloved Rikky, we are deeply grateful for the gift he was. He gave of himself fully and left behind memories filled with warmth, strength, and joy. There will never be another quite like our Rickster.
Run free, Rikky. You are forever part of Alatheia’s heart and the lives you touched so deeply.
Volunteers
Volunteers are the “gold” of Alatheia and make it possible for the many individuals who come here to experience the life changing benefits of therapeutic riding. Experience with horses and/or special needs is not necessary and training is provided. There are many ways to help and range from working directly with horses and riders to facility maintenance to office and administrative help. Our dedicated team of volunteers is welcoming, friendly, and needs you! Be changed as you change a life with the healing power of horses.
Sign-up to volunteer at Alatheia here.
Alatheia’s volunteers come from all walks of life and range in age from 13 to 70+. Some have a lifetime of experience working with horses and others have never even been close to a horse. All bring valuable skills and experiences that build a quality program and create a unique community and special culture.
Alatheia Board of Directors
Glenn Grette
Board Member Emeritus
Glenn co-founded Alatheia in 2011 with his wife, Nancy. He is CEO and owner of Grette Associates Environmental, a consulting firm that specializes in providing natural resources support for construction, permitting, and planning projects throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Stacy Suydam
Board Secretary/Treasurer
Stacy began volunteering at Alatheia a number of years ago as she always had a love for horses and liked people. As the years have gone by, she has grown to love the riders, know the horses (Rikky was her favorite), and most of all has a drive to further the mission of Alatheia. She is married with two children, all of whom enjoy volunteering at ARC. In her time away from the barn, she enjoys her day job as a commercial banker for Peoples Bank, coaching club volleyball, teaching math to the neighborhood kids, and running.
James Coker
Board Member
James is a Veteran currently works as the Infrastructure and Property Manager at McDougall & Sons. He has been an Alatheia volunteer and enjoys working events, particularly as MC at the Annual Run for the Roses Benefit Gala.
Susan Wall
Past President
Susan has been a passionate and committed Alatheia volunteer & donor for five years and a board member for three years. She is a REALTOR© in North Central Washington, serving the Wenatchee Valley, Lake Chelan, and Leavenworth as a highly regarded buyer specialist.
Shiloh Burgess
President
Alatheia Therapeutic Riding Center
Mona Guentzel
Board Member
Mona discovered Alatheia Riding Center some years back when the daughter of dear friends was a rider. She attended her first Little Black Dress fundraiser about six years ago and has grown to love all that Alatheia does and their purpose. She is a small business owner, freelance writer and photographer. She is a wife, mom, and grandma to three wonderful kids. Her hope is to get her entire family involved at Alatheia. She is also a doggy mom to four dogs.
Janet Frey
Board Member
Janet has over 30 years’ experience caring for and advocating for her twin sons with multiple disabilities, due to premature birth. She has been a parent advocate at Seattle Children’s Hospital and a Parent as Teacher to medical resident doctors during their hospital rotations. She has worked as a community guide for DSHS/DDA in King County, helping other parents connect with resources for children with special needs. Janet has pioneered and navigated mainstream/general education programs for both boys, throughout their K-12 education. She was a Para educator for 7 years in the Northshore School District, for both Special and General Education. She enjoys the outdoors, loves to hike and volunteers with Chelan Douglas Land Trust and Upper Valley Mend.
Sasha McGinn
Secretary/Treasurer Elect
Sasha is an advocate for holistic individual well-being, with the intent to enrich the lives of her clients and those she encounters. She was introduced to Alatheia in the summer of 2022, with an invitation to attend the Little Black Dress fundraiser event. The rest is history. Born and raised in Alaska, she grew up on a hobby farm and actively participated in local 4-H and horse shows along with trail rides. She attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI, and graduated with B.S. in Business Administration with Marketing and Information Technology. She moved to Wenatchee in the summer of 2022 and is a financial advisor with Edward Jones. She is enthusiastic about helping clients obtain their goals by offering her financial expertise and encouragement. In her spare time, you can find her hiking, trail running, paddle boarding, and participating in events in this great community she is thrilled and proud to call home.
Chelsea Ewer
Board Member
Chelsea’s first experience with Alatheia was many years ago when she was blessed with the opportunity to hold her daughter’s 5th birthday up at the ranch. From the moment she stepped foot on the property she knew that it was something very special. From there she has developed a relationship through attending our events and partnering through her work with the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chelsea has a huge passion for serving her community and has done so by volunteering on boards and committees including the Apple Blossom Festival, Wenatchee Valley College Foundation, Numerica Performing Arts Center to name a few. She is thrilled to join the incredible team of board, staff and volunteers at Alatheia where she can utilize her experiences and skills to help fulfill the mission of the organization and support the critical work being done to successfully grow and develop for a sustainable future.
Diann Kincaid
Board Member
Alatheia Therapeutic Riding CenterRonya Anna
Board Member
Alatheia Therapeutic Riding Center
Aaron Wilbur
Board Member
As a lifelong resident of Wenatchee, my connection to this community runs deep. Currently, I am a proud partner at Larson Gross CPAs & Consultants, and previously served as managing partner of Homchick, Smith & Associates. My close ties to the business community have given me a unique understanding of the power of collaboration and the importance of diverse perspectives in driving progress and growth—whether for a business, a team, or an entire community.
With a primary focus on the agricultural sector, I have had the privilege of working alongside clients at the local, regional, and national levels, earning a reputation as a trusted advisor. At Larson Gross, I’m honored to lead the Eastern Washington Team, guiding a talented group within a firm of over 200 professionals. My commitment to the profession is paralleled by my dedication to community service, where I’m actively involved in multiple nonprofit organizations across the Wenatchee Valley. I have been proud to support Alatheia as a donor for several years and am now honored to have the opportunity to support this organization with my time in a more meaningful way. The passion and heart behind the organization’s mission, and its vision to expand much needed support to underserved and often marginalized members of our community is inspiring. As a daughter and wife of two Veterans whom I love and care about deeply and as an Auntie to a nephew who benefited from therapeutic horse riding as a child, I am personally invested in Aletheia’s purpose. And, as a follower of Jesus, I am inspired by the organizations dedication to its faith as well.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and supporting my children in their sports and other hobbies. My husband Matt and I celebrated our 26th anniversary earlier this year and enjoy a rewarding life with our three children and two dogs. We love exploring the natural beauty of our area, whether it’s boating on the Columbia River, hiking the local foothills, or glamping on long weekends. Life is Good!
Brendan Wilson
Board Member
Brendan received his Bachelor’s of Health and Rehabilitation Science in 2011 from California State University, Fresno, his Masters of Physical Therapy in 2013 from California State University, Fresno, and his Doctorate of Physical Therapy through Evidence in Motion in 2015. He has completed a Fellowship in Applied Functional Science with the Gray Institute in 2018, along with certification in vestibular rehabilitation in 2019. Brendan grew up hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, and surfing in locations all over the United States and has an extensive and varied background that includes working as a wildland firefighter, physical therapist aide, personal trainer, and a water aerobics instructor. Following multiple athletic injuries and chronic health issues that led to physical therapy treatment, he became passionate about prevention and rehabilitation of physical dysfunction. Brendan enjoys spending time outdoors with his family and friends hiking, fishing, or snowboarding.
Founders
Glenn and Nancy Grette created Alatheia Riding Center in February of 2011, and offered their first therapeutic rides in June of that year. The inspiration for the riding center came much earlier in the summer of 2010 when a friend asked us to provide a 5th birthday ride for their daughter with special needs.
The Grettes will never forget what happened when that little girl got on to ride. She was transformed by the empowerment and joy of moving on a horse rather than being carried by someone or using her walker to get around. We also noticed an incredible connection between our horse, Frid, and this little girl. Something very special was happening and we wanted more. That paired with a desire to live out their Christian faith in a real, tangible way led to further research and discovery.
Nancy began volunteering for a similar facility in Ellensburg and was deeply moved by what she experienced there. Next came a decision to pursue non-profit, 501(c)3, status with the IRS, certification as a therapeutic riding instructor and gain Member Center status for Alatheia with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International) and a training internship at a large center in western Washington. Glenn’s expertise as a business man, ranch hand, and arena and facility designer has helped guide and direct the organization as well.
Alatheia has grown consistently each year of operation. Since starting the first year with 12 riders, Alatheia now serves 95 riders weekly with five instructors, a stable hand and an active volunteer base of more than 100 individuals.
