Bright Strides began in 2017 as a shared dream between childhood best friends Danielle Jacqueline White (formerly Roberts) and Vanessa Gottlieb Laudette. What started as two horse-girls with big hearts and bigger ideas has grown into a thriving, inclusive community that continues to inspire us every day.
With more then three decades in the equine world, Danielle’s journey has moved through hunter jumper, combined training, pleasure riding, and trial work – all of it leading to her true calling as an Equine Therapist and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. Her work is rooted in presence, emotional attunement, and honoring the horse as a full partner in healing.
Together, we’ve built Bright Strides as a place where contribution comes first – where horses, art, movement, and compassionate support create space for people of all ages and abilities to grow, express, and feel seen. We’re endlessly grateful for the volunteers, families, riders, artists, and supporters who make this community what it is.
Bright Strides is, and always will be, a “we.”
Our Board & Team
Together, our board and team ensure every Bright Strides program prioritizes horse welfare, rescue initiatives, and therapeutic impact, while guiding the organization’s growth and global mission.
Danielle White
Co-Founder
Founder of the Grateful Pony Horse Farm in 2012, Danielle has been leading Bright Strides’ mission since its beginnings in 2017. Her vision and dedication to art equine therapy programs continue to inspire participants, partners, and farms worldwide.
Vanessa Laudette
Co-Founder
Lifelong horsewoman and philanthropist, Vanessa has over 30 years of riding experience and a deep passion for helping others. She met Danielle White as a child, and when Danielle was running her Art and Equine Therapy program, Vanessa helped transform it into a nonprofit. Their collaboration is the backbone of Bright Strides and its global network of therapeutic programs.
Melissa Duggan
Partner & Fundrainsing Team Lead
Melissa Duggan is a Massachusetts native with deep roots in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. A lifelong photographer and horsewoman, she has documented people, animals, and the natural world since childhood. She is the founder of WildIrish Farm in Massachusetts and Black Horse Farm Vermont, a therapeutic equine program in Westmore, Vermont, a partner of Bright Strides Art and Equine Therapy Nonprofit.
Sean Condon
Board Member
Sean started as a volunteer over a decade ago and quickly became a trusted board member. He brings long-term commitment, expertise, and strategic guidance to Bright Strides’ growth and programming.