Our People
About Rusty Halo Director Steph Peek
Steph Peek is founder and Executive Director of Rusty Halo Foundation. In 2017, Steph left an incredibly successful 25 year career to start the Foundation and dedicate her time and energy to serving at-risk youth.
Prior to Rusty Halo, Steph worked in the construction industry, having quickly climbed the ladder from a front office administrative position to VP of Purchasing and Operations at DeNova Homes, a well respected Bay Area real estate development firm. She then went on to co-found and run her own construction company BrightonFelton. Over the course of her career, Steph was the recipient of numerous industry awards and an active member of Professional Women in Building.
Steph’s decision to step away from the corporate world and to create Rusty Halo was born out of a commitment to service and youth, and also her own experience with horses. While at DeNova, Steph volunteered with HomeAid Northern California, helping to build and rehabilitate shelters and fundraise for the nonprofit. She later served on the Advisory Board of Junior Achievement of Northern California, and has for several years volunteered with the Navy League of the United States and Honor Flight.
It wasn’t until 2014 that Steph rode her first horse while travelling. Yet she immediately connected with the animal and the calming and peaceful nature of the experience. Inspired and driven by this introduction to horses, the pull to service, and a desire to reach youth, Steph took her first lessons with therapeutic horses and never looked back. She founded Rusty Halo shortly thereafter.
Steph has since earned her Bachelor’s degree and continued on to earn her Master’s of Social Work (MSW). She is certified in a model of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA), and is currently working toward her clinical social work license, Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) and becoming a registered expressive arts therapist. All while simultaneously running the Foundation. Steph brings a unique vision and talent to the therapy world with her abilities to provide Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) as well as therapeutic activities. Steph has a gift for providing leadership skills to young people while also creating a therapeutic environment that is welcoming to all.
Teens have always had a snug and comfy place in Steph's heart. Not having children of her own, she is bubbling over with love and compassion, and is ready to spill that love all over the teens that need it.
Certifications and Education :
Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA)
MSW with a focus on Children, Youth and Families from Cal State University East Bay
Pupil Personnel Services Credential (anticipated December 2021)
Registered Expressive Arts Therapist (anticipated Summer 2022)
LCSW (anticipated Fall of 2024)
Memberships and Organizations:
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
California Society of Clinical Social Workers (CSCSW)
Equitopia