Our Team

Jenny Benton

Founder & Board President

Jenny is a certified Equine Facilitated Learning coach and brings a lifetime of equine study to The CREW Urban Youth Equestrians (The CREW). She is passionate about the connections that can be built between horses and humans. As a co-founder of The CREW, Jenny feels honored to be a part of the transformational journeys of the beautiful, wise and courageous youth who ARE The CREW Urban Youth Equestrians.

Chauntel Smith

Founder & Board Secretary

Chauntel has an unwavering love for children and horses. Coupling horses with youth has been enchanting and motivational. As a co-Founder of The CREW, she is committed to opening career opportunities in the equine industry and connecting youth to the healing power of horses. In partnership with our community, The CREW is changing the notion of who is an equestrian!

Kenatia Gilmer

Founder & Board Treasurer

Kenatia is a certified Equine Facilitated Learning coach who leverages her knowledge and experiences to create spaces and opportunities for youth of color who have been systemically excluded. She has 20+ years of expertise working in education. Developing, mentoring and nurturing youth is a privilege and a blessing! As a founder of The CREW, being able to partner her education experience with the opportunity to pair our youth with horses is magical! She is very proud of the safe space The CREW has created and is excited for the outcomes of each kiddo who joins our herd!

Board Members