Members of the Board
Sophie Rainer
Founder and President
Sophie Rainer
Sophie was born and raised in France. Her love of horses started at an early age, and horses have been part of her life ever since.
One day, 20 years ago while living in France, a friend dropped an abused donkey off at her property. On that day, she fell in love with donkeys!
In addition to her equine industry career in France, Sophie enjoyed a long career in the corporate world, working in financial management and human resources. She also worked in project management as an estate manager for UHNW (ultra-high net worth) individuals in Europe and the United States.
Sophie holds a master’s degree from Pantheon Sorbonne, Paris, in Economics.
Founding and running The Donkeys of the Heart organization allows Sophie the opportunity to bring all of her business experience to the non-profit sector. Sophie believes that this is her opportunity to give back and to make a difference in the lives of those populations in need here in the United States.
Sophie is a certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL) through PATH Intl (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International).
Chandra Steward
Secretary
Chandra Stewart
Chandra Stewart offers 20 years of marketing & communications leadership in diverse industries. A recognized creative thought leader, she has demonstrated a history of orchestrating integrated marketing, communications and event programs. Skilled in finding the balance between heart and head, ensuring cross-functional alignment of goals and vision to drive results, visibility and connection – and ultimately deliver the results clients want to see. Chandra is passionate about inspiring people and leading change through thoughtful storytelling, experiences and fresh perspective to make a brand or idea stick.
Her background includes strategic envisioning to concept development and tactical execution with responsibility for both direct operations and creating the strategic vision for Fortune 500, non-profit, private and government organizations. Her art is a love for inspiring people to connect to the brand through stories and experiences.
Today she continues as a storyteller and program lead managing marketing, communications, events and media relations for HonorHealth Foundation’s Donor Relations Department.
Robert Fisher
Treasurer
Bio coming soon!
Our Volunteers, the Pillars of the Organization
Kelly McCarthy
Kelly McCarthy
“Do Something That Scares You Every Day” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Volunteering with The Donkeys of The Heart has allowed me the wonderful privilege of observing a young child overcome sensory obstacles and fears through interaction with the donkeys and guided teachings with Sophie Rainer, the organization’s founder. It’s amazing to see a child’s confidence grow as she engages with her donkey partners, Edgar and Guillermo, problem solving through those fears together.
Sophie’s equine assisted learning techniques promote trust while creating a sense of connection with energy, words, and action all while empowering individuals responding to stressful situations. Observing clients connecting with these amazing donkeys and the sense of accomplishment and pride as challenges are overcome is why I volunteer here.
A native Minnesotan, “The Valley” of Phoenix has been my home for 16 years. At the age of 14 my first equine experience was swapping my yellow dirt bike with a friend who had a horse. I excitedly leapt onto the back of my new four-legged friend when she merely (marely) shifted weight on her back legs as we stood in place… promptly sending me face first to the ground sporting a bloody nose and split lip. I, too, have benefited firsthand from these learnings!
I am fortunate to work for Mission Wealth an organization offering holistic wealth management services. Mission Wealth fully embraces philanthropic endeavors providing paid time off and matching donations for employees supporting 501(c)(3)’s such as The Donkeys of the Heart in Cave Creek, Arizona.
Please consider donating financial resources and or your time to The Donkeys of The Heart.
Thank you – Kelly McCarthy
Dawn Weiss
Dawn Weiss
“I really had no idea what donkeys were capable of, how intelligent and empathetic they are. After just one session of equine therapy with these donkeys in Cave Creek, it is easy to understand the meaningful connection they forge and the incredible impact they can have on those who need therapy and our community. What struck me most was not just how intuitive they are, but Sophie as well. She reads people and understands how to earn trust to help them benefit the most from equine therapy. It is an honor to be part of this important work in some small way.”
When she isn’t stopping to tell Charles not to eat every tree along the walk, she can be found traveling for work as a franchise marketing executive, and enjoying time at home with her family and at her sons’ sporting events.
Katie Stearns
Katie Stearns
Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University in New Jersey and worked for several years in Investment Banking on Wall Street. She also holds a Master of Science Degree in Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics from New York University and ran her own nutrition consulting firm.
With the intent of living life more creatively, Katie launched her full-time artistic career in January, 2001. Katie is a versatile artist and works in multiple art disciplines, including oil and watercolor painting, relief printing, digital art, and pattern design.
Katie is a strong believer in giving back to the community in which she lives. Over the years, she has volunteered with healthcare organizations, animal rescue organizations, and therapeutic riding organizations.
Katie moved to Arizona in 1995 and currently resides in the town of Carefree with her husband, Rob; her Basset Hound, Mabel; and her Quarter Horse, Annie.
