Meet Our Executive Board
Horses Were Always in My Soul
Erin Giannios
President and Founder
I started riding when I was six years old, as my aunt and uncle owned horses in upstate New York. I was lucky enough to spend weekends with them, visiting their cabin and learning about and riding their horses. They both taught me so much and, at a young age, I was fortunate to learn all about horse care, training and riding. I’m sure at the time they had no idea how impactful their efforts would be in my future.
At age 14, I came to Mahrapo Farm to board my first horse named Ace of Spades. I spent every single free moment with my horse, hanging out at the farm and riding through the Ramapo mountains.
This farm has always felt like home to me.
Eventually I went off to college, focusing on equine studies and continuing my journey with horses while fulfilling my passion. I experienced various elements of the horse world, working at different boarding and riding facilities, continuing to learn everything I could about horses. Yet somehow nothing felt quite right. Eventually I made my way back to Mahrapo Farm and then everything simply clicked. Upon my return I met Bailey and Patches, who had been abandoned from their previous owner. Not only did I find myself back at home again but I fell in love with these two horses. They started me on my current journey and gave me a purpose, a calling.
I feel it is my responsibility to care for these horses who have been left with no place to go, or who have been mistreated or lacking real love or even basic care. Our mission is caring for horses mind, body and soul and this is exactly what all of us do for each and every rescue, giving them a better life. In turn, they have enabled me to fulfill my own dreams and have allowed me to pursue my passion.
Danielle DeBenedetto
Vice President and Co-Founder
I started volunteering during my junior year at Ramapo College before BCHR was a nonprofit organization. I had fallen in love with the horses, the farm, and the overall positive environment that it was before hearing about its ultimate mission. Words cannot express how much these horses and this organization have helped me in my own life; and it is evident that we are making a huge difference in the lives of these beautiful animals- we are giving them a second chance at life.
Denis Trum
Treasurer, Equine Manager
I grew up with horses and have always had a passion for these wonderful animals. After retiring from a successful career in the packaging industry I returned to Mahrapo Farm, having once boarded my family’s horse there. Now I volunteer regularly at the rescue, grooming and exercising our horses. I’m always happy to share my extensive horse knowledge with the other volunteers to help them learn how to properly care for our rescues.
Anne Barretta
Communications Director
With the help of several experienced volunteers, I’ve learned the basics of horse grooming, tacking and exercising. Considering that many of the BCHR horses were abused or abandoned, I feel especially grateful and honored to have gained their trust through these necessary activities.
With our love and concern for the horses, we volunteers bond quickly over shared chores and develop a helpful and supportive camaraderie. These majestic creatures have beautiful souls, and I am humbled to think that I might be making a difference in their lives…but in the end they’ve made a tremendous impact on mine.
Jen White
Equine Manager
As a kid, all of our neighbors and I had horses in our backyards. A typical Saturday would include packing a bag lunch, jumping on our horses and disappearing into the woods for the day. I still have the same love for horses and now BCHR has become my second home. I love all of our rescues, and I enjoy working with our group of dedicated volunteers. You can usually find me giving a tour of the farm or sneaking carrots to my buddy, Jesse James!
Roe Frontauria
Former Barn Maintenance Manager
The time I spend at the farm with all the wonderful people working to help these animals is something I am so grateful to be a part of. It is such a joy to be involved with helping these horses learn to trust and accept love from people. It truly is such a special place for the animals and for me.
