Helen Messenger, President, Founder, Helen’s interest in horses started at the early age of 5.  She graduated in 1972 from Wilkes-Barre General Hospital’s Nursing Program.  Her nursing career ranged from General Surgery to Labor & Delivery to Infant Nursery.  In 1977, she focused primarily on Pediatric care and that evolved into working with special needs children and adults in 1985.
Helen bought her first horse, Rum Rico Bars, in 1977 and started with trail riding. She began competing in shows with Sleepin Partner and breeding Quarter Horses in 1981. Mesa Vista Farm was established in January, 1995, offering breeding, boarding and lesson programs. Therapeutic riding was added in 1996.  The farm evolved into Mesa Vista Therapeutics, Inc. (MVT) and became a 501(c)(3) organization in November, 2005, making its primary mission working with special needs individuals. Helen's passion for people and animals defines her goal of "bringing animals and individuals with special needs together." 

Dr. Courtney Belden, Vice President, Dr. Belden graduated from St. George's School of Veterinary Medicine in January 2006. Afterwards, she went on to complete internships in both equine ambulatory medicine/general practice and large animal surgery. Dr. Belden then worked as an associate for 1 year in equine practice followed by 2 years in small animal practice. During her internships, Dr. Belden was exposed to acupuncture as a treatment modality and was immediately impressed and determined to become certified. She completed her certification in veterinary acupuncture through the Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians course in Ft Collins, CO in 2008. In 2011, Dr. Belden opened her own veterinary and acupuncture practice, Central Virginia Veterinary and Acupuncture (www.centralvavet.com). Dr. Belden is also on the medical advisory board for Fetch A Cure and enjoys spending time with her dog, supportive boyfriend, family and friends in her spare time.

Caitlin Woolwine, Media Coordinator, Caitlin began riding at the young age of seven and has not stopped since. With years of experience in the saddle, riding under various instructors and successfully competing in hunter/jumper show circuits, Caitlin has even trained our three year old Breeding Stock Paint, Sky, who has become the youngest horse to ever be used in our therapeutic riding program. Caitlin is in charge of our website as well as various online accounts such as our Facebook and Twitter page. She also teaches beginner through intermediate hunter/jumper lessons for our traditional riders. Caitlin can be found spending time with, riding, and showing her registered Quarter Horse mare, Zips Ms DD (a.k.a. "DD"), in dressage with the hope of introducing her to eventing in the near future.

Andi Cherry, Volunteer Coordinator

Neil Kauder, Associate, Neil is President of Visual Research, Inc., a consulting firm located in Midlothian, VA.  He was married to Andrea Kauder until her death in 2004.  The annual Mesa Vista Golf Tournament Fundraiser is held to honor her memory and contributions.

Neil has 2 sons, Adam and Bryan.  Adam is a student at James Madison University and Bryan is a student at Midlothian High School. 

He is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and has been involved in equestrian activities off and on for 30 years.  Neil also enjoys many outdoor activities, including fishing.  He is now married to Jane Kauder, a graduate of the University of Virginia who is an avid golfer and excellent tennis player.

Louis Quarrles, Farrier and Trainer, Louis is our on site farrier and trainer bringing 25 years experience in both categories.  With quiet hands he can start a colt, correct bad habits and "tune up" your horse.  He does it all for us and is now available for you.

Michele Schutt, Massage Therapist for Riders and Horses, Michele is well versed in both trigger point therapy and Basaltic stone therapy.

Yan Pan, Acupuncturist, Yan comes to us with 30+ years of acupuncture experience.  In 2006, he received recognition from the World Heath Organization for his work.  He is currently working on his Doctorate