TIS was founded by Tammera and Jess, combining their passion for horses with a desire to create meaningful impact. Tammera, a social worker, believed horse connections could deepen her impact, while Jess wanted to share the profound benefits of human-horse relationships with more people. Beginning with small introductory sessions, TIS quickly grew into high-impact learning and healing opportunities. Today, the organization operates in three locations with diverse session offerings and a professional team, expanding to meet growing community demand.
Meet the Team
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FounderAfter years of witnessing the profound benefits of the human-horse connection, she felt deeply inspired to create a platform that would share these transformative experiences with more individuals and communities. This passion led her to co-found Together In Stride, a foundation dedicated to bringing these life-changing opportunities to others
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FounderTammera Merkens is a dedicated professional, a proud mom, and a passionate advocate for building healthy relationships between humans and horses. As a social worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Tammera is a certified facilitator and co-founder of Together In Stride Foundation where she serves as Executive Director. She has also owned and operated Humble Hooves on Vancouver Island for more than six years. Tammera is deeply committed to lifelong learning, reconciliation, and self-improvement.
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Our organization started from a place of passion that has grown to a heart-centered committed leadership team that is focused on delivering high quality programs for both individuals and horses.Our certified facilitators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, combining their expertise in working with both horses and individuals. With a deep understanding of equine behavior and human dynamics, they create safe, supportive environments that foster personal growth, healing, and transformation.
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The horses are the teachers and mentors. They are a wonderful collection of horses with very specific jobs and amazing personalities. Some have rescue stories and others have been intentionally chosen to share with you. All have lessons within them that they are kind enough to share with all of us.
