Why we help.

The Founders Story

Gift of Heart is a captivating equestrian ranch nestled in the heart of Sedalia, Colorado. The ranch, which was founded by Tyler Weston, combines the timeless beauty of horses with the transformative power of equine therapy. Having experienced firsthand the profound impact of this therapy on his own journey to recovery, Tyler established this non-profit with a singular mission: to provide solace, healing, and newfound hope to those affected by addiction, abuse, or disabilities. At Gift of Heart, we believe that the extraordinary bond between humans and horses can be a catalyst for positive change. Through our innovative equine therapy programs, we create a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can rediscover their inner strength, build resilience, and embrace a brighter future. Join us on this inspiring journey as we strive to make a lasting difference in our community, one life at a time.

Meet the Team

  • Tyler Weston - President

    Tyler is the founder of Gift of Heart, dedicated to empowering communities with compassion and a passion for helping others.

  • Jenn McDuffie - Treasurer

    With a natural gift for connecting with others, Jenn has dedicated her work to empowering individuals and communities to recognize their own strength and the importance of supporting one another.

  • Blaine Ussery - Vice President

    Blaine has a natural gift for making people feel welcome, bringing warmth and ease to any room he enters. Known for his kindness and steady presence, he has a way of connecting people who might otherwise never cross paths. Friends and colleagues alike admire his ability to create community wherever he goes.

  • Leanna Weston - Secretary

    Leanna believes in helping others through volunteering. She approaches every interaction with kindness and authenticity. She has extensive experience with other non-profits in the Colorado area. She believes Gift of Heart will be essential in the community.

  • Sarah Modzelewski - Mentor

    Sarah has always been drawn to the quiet, unspoken connection between humans and animals, especially horses. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and has professional experience as both a Zookeeper and a Field Researcher in ecological restoration. Guided by a deep belief in the inherent worth of all life, Sarah now serves with Gift of Heart, where she offers one-on-one mentorship and facilitates relationship-based work with horses to support resilience, emotional growth, and authentic connection.

  • Leah Hutsell - Mentor

    Leah Hutsell is a dedicated Special Education Learning Specialist currently serving middle school students. With over 15 years of experience in education, Leah has worked with learners from preschool through high school, supporting students with a wide range of abilities including ADHD, cognitive impairments, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.

  • Sandy Glumb - Executive Director

    Sandy comes to us with many years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She is a Child Development Associate (CDA) which is recognized nationally and is an active member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). She has directed many children’s programs and has been teaching preschool for 26 years. She currently teaches at Cherry Hills Christian School and enjoys her summers outdoors with her horses at the beautiful Weston Valley Ranch.  She has owned and operated her own preschool and is the President of Creative Treasures Early Learning Foundation, a nonprofit specializing in day care for all ages.

  • Rosalie Pendergast - Mentor

    Rosalie Prendergast, MS, BCBA, NL1,  is the founder of Eclipse Therapy and the developer of The Happy Medium Approach—a relationship-centered, trauma-informed framework that supports psychological flexibility, connection, and greater workability in everyday life. Her work is grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when individuals feel safe, understood, and supported just as they are.

  • Anna Glumb - Mentor

    Anna has worked with horses since she was 12 years old. She has a positive attitude and excels at problem-solving. She has experience working with equine therapy programs and is pursuing her PATH certificate.