About Us
Konnie Fries
Growing up in New York, Konnie was captivated by the world of hunter/jumper riding. However, when her family faced significant challenges, she was forced to give up her beloved horses in early adolescence. At just 13, she turned to addiction as a way to numb her trauma and seek solace. Despite facing numerous trials—teen pregnancy, addiction, relapse, and juvenile delinquency—Konnie persevered and ultimately rediscovered her self-worth through the healing power of horses.
In her mid-20s, Konnie stepped into a show barn, eager to learn, even if it meant mucking stalls. Her journey took her across show barns in New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida, where every horse she encountered taught her valuable lessons in strength, patience, and resilience. However, it wasn't until she moved to Colorado and met a mustang that she understood her true calling.
Through years of studying humane training methods and mindfulness, Konnie learned that the essence of connection lies in energy. It became clear that training methods were secondary to the energy exchanged between horse and handler. This realization sparked a profound transformation within her, which she began to witness in the horses she worked with.
Now at 38, Konnie is dedicated to connecting, educating, and transforming the lives of at-risk youth, mustangs, and their adopters. Her mission is to share her journey, helping others find their own happy place—just as she did. Konnie believes in the reciprocal nature of transformation; horses can heal us as much as we can heal them. Her story is one of resilience and hope, encouraging others to embrace their shadows and discover the light within.
*Konnie is currently in her Master’s program for Clinical Mental Health*
GEMS
Great Escape Mustang Collaborative
In 2011, GEMS vision to create a new model for supporting mustangs was born. This led to the establishment of the Sand Wash Advocate Team (SWAT) in 2012, a dedicated group of volunteers committed to identifying mustangs, cleaning up the Sand Wash Basin HMA, and implementing PZP darting efforts. By fall 2019, SWAT became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, continuing to advocate for the wild horses of Sand Wash Basin.
Today, Great Escape Mustang Sanctuary (GEMS) partners with the Forest Service and TAME to provide wild horses for the Wild Horse Course, while also fiscally sponsoring TAME. The GEMS sanctuary offers refuge to a herd of 30 wild mustangs on a 900-acre ranch east of Denver, along with three additional retirees needing special care. Their mission is to empower formerly wild horses to thrive in their new domestic lives, providing them with essential training to navigate this world. With a dedicated team of passionate individuals, GEMS invites others to join their cause—because it truly takes a village to support these magnificent horses
Vista Charter School
Vista Charter School in Montrose, CO, embraces an individualized, anytime, anywhere approach to education, creating customized educational plans tailored to each student's unique goals. By collaborating closely with students and their families, counselors help determine the best pathway for graduation and successful transitions to life beyond high school. With flexible learning schedules, students can adapt their education to fit work commitments, athletic training, or internships, ensuring a personalized educational experience.
This year, Vista has introduced our Honeycomb Horsemanship Riding Program in addition to the Wild Horse Course, further enriching its offerings. Students can expect an accredited high school diploma, access to various learning formats—including in-person, online, and blended options—competency-based instruction, and experiential learning opportunities. With a focus on 21st-century skills, trauma-informed education, and robust support systems, Vista Charter School empowers students to thrive in their academic and personal pursuits.
