Our Leadership
Jeremy
Founder & Executive Director — Guiding Warriors to Purpose
Jeremy Svejcar served in the military from 2000–2010, including deployments in support of multiple operations. After returning from his final deployment, he faced significant personal challenges but discovered purpose and healing through working with horses.
In 2016, Jeremy founded Charlie Five to help other warriors—veterans and first responders—find direction, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose through equine partnerships. He continues to lead the organization, guiding its programs, partnerships, and mission-driven initiatives.
Rose
Co-Founder — Operations & Community Partnerships
Rose Garcia met Jeremy shortly after his last deployment in 2007. She is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran who bred, trained, and showed cutting horses. Rose earned her undergraduate degree in Mass Communications and Spanish from the University of New Mexico in 2007 and an MBA from New Mexico Highlands University in 2015. A proud mother, she currently works as a project controller for a national laboratory and supports Charlie Five by helping oversee operations, strategy, and community partnerships.
Stephanie
Board Member & Equine Specialist — Connecting Horses and Heroes
Stephanie Pedersen is an accomplished equestrian, having competed in the NRHA and NRCHA. She works as a Markel Horse Insurance Specialist and resides in Washington with her husband and daughter. Stephanie plays a vital role in connecting Charlie Five to the broader western equine community, opening doors for programs, sponsorships, and partnerships that further the organization’s mission.
Gunny
Board Member & Professional Horseman — Building Partnerships Through Horsemanship
Justin "Gunny" Mathison is an NRHA Professional with a long, distinguished career as a horse trainer and lifelong horseman. Based in Tioga, Texas, Gunny and his wife, Monica, own and operate Mathison Reining Horses, where they have developed elite reining horses and mentored riders at every level. Gunny brings decades of experience, industry leadership, and a deep commitment to the western way of life to Charlie Five, helping guide equine placements, strengthen relationships within the horse community, and further the organization's mission of building resilience, responsibility, and purpose through horses.
Camryn
Board Member & Marketing Strategist — Sharing the Story of Charlie Five
Camryn Faust serves as the Digital Content Manager for Kimes Ranch, where she leads the brand's digital storytelling through photography, videography, graphic design, and social media. Recognized as a member of the COWGIRL 30 Under 30 Class of 2026, Camryn is passionate about preserving and promoting the western way of life through authentic storytelling. She brings valuable expertise in marketing, branding, and communications to Charlie Five, helping expand the organization's reach, strengthen partnerships, and share its mission with a broader audience.