Our Team

Chauntel Smith

Founder & Board President

Chauntel has an unwavering love for children and horses. She has 20+ years of leadership experience, including working to develop and mentor youth of color as a Pharmacy Technician Instructor, Girl Scouts Troop Leader, and Girls Head Basketball Coach. As a co-founder of The CREW, she is committed to advocating for greater diversity and inclusion in the equestrian world and believes that every child, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of connecting to the healing power of horses!

Toni McWilliams

Board Secretary

Toni McWilliams is a retired Army Combat veteran who specializes in mindfulness, social-emotional development, and breathwork. With a background in recovery from Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders, Toni has dedicated her career to helping individuals develop their social and emotional skills through the art of deep breathing for stress reduction and overall relaxation. As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Toni has received specialized training in mindfulness techniques and social and emotional learning strategies. Toni works with people of all ages, from young children to adults, guiding them and developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills through mindfulness practices. She helps individuals cultivate a sense of presence and inner peace, which supports their ability to navigate social interactions and manage their emotions effectively. In addition to her work with The CREW, Toni holds a full-time position at the Minneapolis VA as the MED-PSYCH-SUD Certified Peer Support Specialist. Toni is passionate about helping others build resilience, empathy, and positive relationships, ultimately leading individuals to greater well-being and success in all aspects of life.  

Kenatia Gilmer

Founder & Volunteer

Kenatia is a certified Equine Facilitated Learning coach who leverages her knowledge and experiences to create spaces and opportunities for youth of color who have been systemically excluded. She has 20+ years of expertise working in education. Developing, mentoring and nurturing youth is a privilege and a blessing! As a founder of The CREW, being able to partner her education experience with the opportunity to pair our youth with horses is magical! She is very proud of the safe space The CREW has created and is excited for the outcomes of each kiddo who joins our herd!

Board Members