Co-Founders
Joseph Jauregui’s lifelong mission to make a difference began at a young age, right after high school he pursued his calling by attending paramedic school. Working on an ambulance in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles for seven years, he exemplified his unwavering dedication to assisting those in need. However, his world was shattered when his younger sister, Samantha, tragically took her own life at the age of 15. This devastating event turned Joseph’s life upside down, prompting him and his mother to transform their pain into action. Together, they founded SRD Straightening Reins, an organization aimed at preventing the kind of heartache they experienced. Samantha’s passing deeply affected Joseph’s ability to continue his work as a paramedic. Now he could clearly relate to grieving families, it became increasingly challenging to concentrate on the demands of the job. Ultimately, he decided to step away from his ambulance career, transitioning to a role as an Equine Specialist at SRD. This shift allowed him to channel his understanding and empathy into helping youths and their families through equine therapy. In addition to his work at SRD, Joseph embarked on new endeavors that highlight his determination and business acumen. He recently established a Financial Technology Company and a Consulting company for Money Services Businesses, showcasing his multifaceted approach to making a positive impact in various spheres. Joseph’s daily commitment is a testament to his belief in making a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Through his experiences, he continues to learn and grow, recognizing that his clients contribute just as much to his personal growth as he does to theirs!
Board Of Directors
Deborah S. Rocha
With a Masters in Special Education and 33 + plus years in full time teaching for the Saugus Union School District, Deborah Rocha, founder of SRD Straightening Reins, has created a great team, each with their specialties, to serve both the youth on the ranch and in the community. Recently retired, Deborah can now spend full time to further develop programs that will enhance the mission of SRD.
The fact that horses and ranch life provided an additional five years for her daughter, Samantha, to spend time with her family and friends, before she took her life, solidified the power of horses. Deborah proceeded to acquire her EAGALA certification and made a commitment to honor Samantha’s legacy by creating a Foundation that would develop a youth’s confidence through hands-on experiences with simple tasks of horse grooming and care, equine-assisted learning workshops for communication skills, private equine-assisted psychotherapy for those dealing with more severe needs, as well as workshops that help to create healthy self-care habits for parents and caregivers.
Following the mission of SRD, Deborah has committed her board to furthering the legacy of the Samantha Rocha-Dyer Straightening Reins Foundation to provide every child a safe place to find the tools for their own mental well-being.
Maritza de la Cruz
Maritza de la Cruz has worked in the Santa Clarita Valley for over 30 years before retiring as a speech and language pathologist for the Saugus Union School District. As a passionate educator for children with special needs, Maritza focused much of her efforts on educating and supporting the mental health and well-being of children and their families. Wanting to become active in her community, she researched other means of volunteering in the area of mental health and was drawn to the vision and mission of SRD Straightening Reins.
Maritza has since become a committed volunteer and is an executive board member. She mentions that has the privilege of working with Deborah Rocha, who is a boundless force for positivity, as well as, many other passionate and dedicated community members who have supported SRD since their doors first opened. The purpose of SRD is clear and vital; to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing place for children and youth struggling with mental health concerns to find self-worth and acceptance.
Arnold Bryant
Arnold came to the Santa Clarita Valley almost six years ago after he was released from Active Duty in the United States Navy. For Arnold, mental health is no stranger. His mother has suffered long-term depression and anxiety, but through family support and medical professionals, she is living a happy and full life.
Arnold joined the advisory board because he wants to ensure that people who have a mental illness will have another means of support, and with SRD Straightening Reins, he firmly believes this could be the best option. Arnold is an avid animal enthusiast.
Marcie McEndree
Marcie is a California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor . She is also a Mother, Clinical Supervisor, Educator, Coach and School Counselor. She was awarded her Counselor License in 2014 and has been working as a Clinical Supervisor with SRD Straightening Reins since 2018. With over 20 years experience working with school districts and families promoting good mental health habits and developing increased awareness of the mental health challenges society may struggle with, she is an asset to the clinical team! She enjoys research, reading, writing, the outdoors and exercise to maintain healthy habits and inspire others to create positive self and social change.
Jhoanna Gutierrez
Jhoanna comes to SRD as an advocate for many, specifically single mothers and those that are working to improve their lives through an educational path. She has recently completed her AA in Business and now attends CSUN working to secure her BA in Accounting. Her active engagement is through SRD’s Ranch crew program and our school-based prevention program.