Darlene has worked closely with founder Dr. Stuart Brown for more than 15 years. In this role, she supports the financial stewardship and operational integrity of the Institute’s work. In addition to her work with NIFPlay, Darlene is the founder of Horseplay YOUTH, an experiential learning initiative that helps children develop courage, resilience, and social-emotional skills through equine companionship and play-based, embodied activities. Her work integrates horsemanship, play, and nutrition to support both mental and physical well-being. Darlene is deeply committed to helping children — and the adults who support them — rediscover curiosity, confidence, and joy. She believes that small moments of insight and connection can meaningfully change the course of a life, and her work reflects a lifelong dedication to fostering growth, empathy, and possibility for both humans and animals.