Why I Work so Hard"Improving the lives of others" is my personal mission. I am fortunate to have a wide variety of experiences, including having been a family/ addictions therapist, legislative analyst, grant manager and funder at the community, state and federal levels, consultant, and 19 years as the executive director of non-profits. This richness of experiences has created a strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and abilities.As the executive director of HALTER, I love that I get to work with an amazing team of professionals, as well as volunteers. EVERYONE is dedicated to improving the lives of OUR children (for aren't all children =our future=OUR children?). The committment to the wellbeing of our equine partners is shared by everyone. Our board of directors is engaged. We are proud of the services we provide as well as our currentl research projects. Always Learning, Always TeachingI love learning, which is why I am thrilled to be part of the Horses and Humans research Foundation! I love being part of funding impactful research on the horse-human connection. I am fascinated by organizations, and how organizations (for-profit, non-profit, and government) tackle problems and seize opportunities. Having grown the number of people with disabilities served by over 1,000% in my former position, I continue to consult (on a limited basis) for nonprofits, do some limited grant writing, as well as writing articles and presenting at conferences. SpecialtiesAs a strategic thinker and planner, I bring a thoughtful approach to both problems and opportunities. Being detail oriented I am able to develop and implement plans with clear goals and measurable objectives, and identify the resources needed for success. Achievements and Activities of NoteI am a Board Member of the Horses and Humans Research Foundation, and currently the president of that board. We advocate for research funds to examine the impact that horses have on humans and disseminate evidence to people and organizations that can benefit and apply it to improve outcomes. *Previously appointed by the Governor of Virginia to the Virginia Horse Industry Board, and was its former chairperson*Provided consulting services to a division of the National Parks*The former Vice-Chair of the Virginia Horse Council, I provided legislative support by analyzing proposed bills and writing language that has been incorporated into legislation. *Previously a legislative analyst and grants manager for the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice ServicesFormer last name: Bacot