Our Staff
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Kimberly Shafer
PROGRAM / VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Kim serves as the Program Coordinator at HorsePower and has been with the organization since October 2022. She grew up in Hartford and graduated from West Central. Her love for horses began at a young age while helping her aunt and uncle care for their Percherons, an experience that sparked a lifelong appreciation for horses and continues to influence her work today.
After marrying her husband, Ben, who served in the Air Force, Kim moved to Wichita, Kansas. While living there, she became involved with a therapeutic riding center. Initially, she volunteered in Wichita because she wanted an opportunity to be around horses, but it did not take long for her to discover a deeper passion for equine-assisted services. She was inspired by the confidence participants gained through their interactions with horses and loved watching them accomplish things they once thought were impossible.
Kim volunteered and worked with therapeutic riding centers in several locations across the country. Along the way, Kim pursued education and worked as a Veterinary Technician, further expanding her knowledge of animal care and welfare
In 2022, Kim and her husband returned to South Dakota when he joined the South Dakota Air National Guard. Shortly after moving back, Kim joined the HorsePower team. Today, she especially enjoys witnessing the unique partnership that develops between clients, volunteers, and horses and the positive impact it has on everyone involved.
In her free time, Kim enjoys camping with her extended family and photographing landscapes and nature.
Erin Gradert, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist-Hippotherapy
Erin Gradert, OTR/L, is joining HorsePower for her first summer providing occupational therapy services using hippotherapy during the summer session. She began her career in education as a K–3 special education teacher before returning to school to earn her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2023. Since graduating, Erin has worked at a therapeutic riding center in Alabama as well as outpatient occupational therapy clinics. She recently earned her Level I certification in the use of hippotherapy and is excited to combine her background in education, occupational therapy, and equine-assisted services to support the children and families at HorsePower.
Erin was drawn to HorsePower because of the opportunity to expand her knowledge and experience in occupational therapy and hippotherapy while serving clients through the unique partnership between horse and therapist. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact horses can have on a child’s development, she looks forward to seeing that same transformation at HorsePower. Her favorite part of this work is watching the connection between clients and their horses grow, leading to increased strength, confidence, self-regulation, and independence.
Originally from Minnesota, Erin now lives in Alabama with her husband, their son, and their two adopted dogs. Each summer, they return to the Midwest to spend time with family and friends in South Dakota and Iowa. Outside of work, Erin enjoys hiking, spending time at the beach, traveling, and making memories with her family.
Sierra Post
Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Hello, my name is Sierra. Originally from Astoria, Oregon, I relocated to South Dakota after marrying my husband, Ethan. My lifelong passion for equines began in childhood, where I seized every opportunity to be around horses—from participating in local parades to crafting makeshift halters from baling twine.
Upon moving to South Dakota, I sought to reconnect with the equestrian community and discovered HorsePower. What began as a personal endeavor to return to the saddle quickly evolved into a dedicated commitment, with Horsepower quickly becoming the center of my daily life.
During the summer of 2023, I had the privilege of serving as the second Therapeutic Riding Instructor. While I have developed a profound appreciation for our exceptional horses and dedicated volunteers, my greatest inspiration comes from our clients. The most rewarding aspect of this role is witnessing the transformative power of the human to horse connection. Facilitating the physical, emotional, and personal growth of our clients as they partner with these incredible animals is a truly extraordinary experience, and I am deeply honored to play a guiding role in their remarkable progress.
In my free time, I love to fill it with riding my horse Rashod or adventuring with my dog Miso!
“Courage is found in unlikely places.”- J.R.R. Tolkien”
Perrin Bisschop
Herd Manager
Perrin Bisschop joined the HorsePower team as Herd Manager in September 2024. From a young age, she has been passionate about both horses and helping others. She began taking riding lessons as a child and eventually worked at her local barn in exchange for additional riding opportunities and hands-on experience with horse care and management.
Perrin is passionate about continually expanding her knowledge of equine behavior, welfare, and species-appropriate care. She believes that providing horses with the best possible quality of life allows them to thrive both in and out of their work, ultimately benefiting the clients they serve.
After moving to South Dakota, Perrin sought a place where she could continue growing her horsemanship skills while making a meaningful impact in her community. HorsePower provided the perfect opportunity to combine her love of horses with her desire to help people of all abilities pursue their goals and experience the unique connection that horses can offer.
One of Perrin’s favorite aspects of working at HorsePower is witnessing the relationships that develop between horses, clients, and volunteers. She enjoys seeing the confidence, joy, and healing that horses can inspire without saying a single word. She also values the opportunity to learn the many different facets of operating an equine-assisted services facility and appreciates the dedicated community of volunteers who make HorsePower’s mission possible.
Outside of the barn, Perrin enjoys hiking and camping with her husband and dog, reading, painting, and exploring new creative hobbies. She also loves spending time with her miniature donkey, Banjo, and is always happy to accept a donkey cuddle or two.
Brody Muchow
Lead Volunteer
My name is Brody Muchow, and I’ve been involved at HorsePower for four years, first as a volunteer and now as a Lesson Assistant. I recently graduated from Roosevelt High School and will be attending South Dakota State University this fall, where I’ll be majoring in Accounting.
I got involved with HorsePower because I wanted to give back to my community while spending time with horses. My favorite part of working at HorsePower is seeing the impact our program has on participants and watching their confidence grow each week.
Most of my time is spent caring for the horses and assisting during lessons by leading horses or sidewalking alongside participants. I enjoy building relationships with our participants, volunteers, and horses, and it’s rewarding to be part of a team that makes such a positive difference in people’s lives.
Outside of HorsePower, I enjoy competitive archery, traveling, and spending time outdoors. A fun fact about me is that I’ve competed in archery tournaments across the United States and even in Canada.
Gracie Pedersen
Staff Member
Gracie started working with us as a part-time instructor in the summer of 2025. She just graduated from Tri-Valley High School and plans to attend Lake Area Technical College in Watertown for nursing. Gracie plans to eventually become a flight nurse in Sioux Falls.
Gracie grew up on an acerage by Colton, living just minutes away from the barn. Her love for horses has always been present, growing up around cattle and horses allowed Gracie to grow fond of horses and agricultural work. She currrently has and cares for three of her own horses. Gracie doesn’t just enjoy working with animals, but people as well.
While assisting a team mate with physical challenges in archery, Gracie realized that she really liked to help people who need extra assistance or care. This led Gracie to meet Mindy Hill, who asked Gracie to become a part of Horse Power. During her time at Horse Power, Gracie has learned how to instruct lessons as well as connect with many people from different walks of life.
Outside of Horse Power Gracie works at Avera as a Patient Care Tech, caring for others in a hospital setting. In her free time she enjoys spending time outside and with friends, doing anything active. A fun fact about Gracie is that she is a member of the Colton Volunteer Fire Department.
Board of Directors
HorsePower's Board of Directors Volunteer Their Time & Array of Talents To Help Support Our Ongoing Mission.
Marisa Draper
Board President
Favorite Horse: Rainey
Marisa Draper lives in rural Garretson, South Dakota, with her fiancé and son, while her son’s twin sister resides in the Twin Cities area. Their home is shared with three horses and two dogs, reflecting Marisa’s lifelong connection to animals and the equine community. She works as the Finance and Human Resources Manager at Carroll Institute, a role she has held for the past six years.
In her free time, Marisa enjoys farming near Madison, South Dakota, where her family also keeps a camper for weekend getaways. She enjoys gardening and spending time training and developing their two Clydesdale cross horses. Marisa’s history with HorsePower spans many years, having served on staff from 2008 to 2017 before joining the Board of Directors, where she has now served for eight years.
HorsePower holds a special place in Marisa’s heart. Her favorite part of serving on the board is hearing about and witnessing the progress of clients firsthand. Having seen the impact of the program over many years, she knows the life-changing difference HorsePower can make and feels honored to continue supporting its mission.
Michael Schelling
Board Treasurer
Favorite Horse: Sarsparilla
Michael Schelling has been a dedicated supporter of HorsePower for more than 12 years. He is married to Dana and is the proud stepfather of their 16-year-old son, Oliver. At home, they are also kept company by their two cats, Nova and Luna. Michael is a CPA with Solution CPA and has worked in public accounting since graduating from the University of South Dakota in 2008.
When he is not working, Michael enjoys bass fishing and iRacing. Before joining the HorsePower Board of Directors 11 years ago, he spent a year serving on the Finance Committee. His favorite part of serving on the board is collaborating with fellow volunteers and professionals to navigate challenges and work toward the shared goal of advancing HorsePower’s mission. He values the opportunity to help strengthen the organization and ensure it continues making a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families throughout the community.
Kristin Derenge
Board Member
Kristin Derenge was born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She is a proud pet parent to two cats and a mini Goldendoodle, who keeps her active on a part-time basis. Kristin works as an Associate Attorney at Boyce Law Firm in Sioux Falls and has been practicing law for six years. Prior to becoming an attorney, she worked in banking and at the Nebraska Department of Labor.
In her free time, Kristin enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors playing fetch with her dog. She joined the HorsePower Board of Directors in 202? and appreciates the opportunity to support a mission she truly believes in. One of her favorite parts of serving on the board is visiting the barn, spending time with the animals, and seeing firsthand the positive impact HorsePower has on the lives of its clients and families.
Craig Johnson
Board Member
Craig Johnson is a retired banking professional who spent 40 years with US Bank, serving as a Senior Credit Officer before retiring ten years ago. Craig recently became engaged to Ruth and is enjoying this exciting new chapter of life alongside his two dogs, Gabe, a 9-year-old beagle/spaniel mix, and Tia, a 7-year-old yellow lab.) In his free time, Craig enjoys volunteering, hunting, fishing, spending time with family, serving as a cantor at his church, and supporting organizations that make a difference in the community.
Craig has served on the HorsePower Board of Directors for the past three years. His favorite part of being involved with HorsePower is working with the clients and witnessing their joy, progress, and personal growth. He finds it especially rewarding to see the positive impact that horses and the HorsePower community have on the lives of individuals and families.
Jenny Eggers
Board Member
My name is Jenny Eggers and I live in Brandon, South Dakota, with my husband, Josh, and our four children, Zayden (17), Olive (16), Kinley (15), and Stein (13). I serve as the President of Rising Rock Rodeo Bible Camp, a four-day overnight camp that teaches young people the sport of rodeo while sharing the love of Jesus Christ. I am also a Certified Life Coach and Draper Therapy Practitioner with a passion for helping others find healing and hope.
Together with my husband, I founded and operate 605 Roots, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the power of horses with the community by walking alongside individuals who have had a hard start in life or are seeking a fresh beginning. Through retreats, camps, and one-on-one work, I use equine experiences to help people learn boundaries, build healthy relationships, and reconnect head and heart. I joined HorsePower in the spring of 2025 and have been blessed to witness firsthand the impact horses have on individuals and families in our community. My favorite part of serving as a board member is helping HorsePower grow its reach—impacting more families, strengthening community, and continuing a legacy of hope and healing through horses.
Peggy Kapusta
Board Secretary
Peggy Kapusta and her husband, Tom, enjoy the rural South Dakota lifestyle and spending time with family. After a successful career of more than 35 years in marketing communications, where she served as a director, editor, and social media manager, Peggy is now retired. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, cooking, reading, traveling to visit family, and many other interests.
Peggy joined the HorsePower Board of Directors in December 2021 and has enjoyed being part of the organization’s continued growth and impact. Her favorite part of serving on the board is participating in HorsePower’s events and witnessing the excitement and joy of the clients firsthand. Seeing the positive difference HorsePower makes in the lives of individuals and families is what makes her service so rewarding.
Tracy Wilbeck
Board Member
Tracy Wilbeck is a naturally creative person and that comes through in her traveling planning for her clients. That creativity has come from a diverse background including radio production and as an insurance agent. But she always had a calling for travel. While working in those other careers, she pursed a travel and tourism degree from Penn State University. That led to her joining Travel Partners in August 2008 (later renamed Acendas Travel). She became a beach vacation (primarily all-inclusive resorts), destination wedding and honeymoon specialist.
Her travel destination specialties include Hawaii, the Caribbean and Mexico.
Eric Brown
Board Member
Dr. Eric Brown, PT, DPT, OCS is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and an APTA Board-Certified Orthopedic Specialist for over the past ten years. He started this practice in January 2021 in his vision to serve clients all throughout the Sioux Falls Metro by offering comprehensive physical therapy evaluations and holistic treatment for all orthopedic conditions. Outside of the clinic, he remains active in the community as an adjunct professor for Augustana University’s Doctorate of Physical Therapy program and was selected to provide treatment to the cast & crew starring in nationally recognized Broadway Shows featured at the Washington Pavilion.
