Our Board
Board Bios:
Cait (Founder/President): Cait Oponski Luca is a first-generation horse girl, passionate animal advocate, and founder of Lucky Break Rescue, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving horses from slaughter and giving them a second chance at life. Cait has personally rescued and rehomed over 550 horses, transforming their lives and the lives of the families who adopt them.
Before founding Lucky Break Rescue, Cait owned and operated Corral West Horse Adventures, a unique dude string operation in which every horse in the program was a rescue. Her innovative approach not only provided unforgettable Western experiences for guests but also showcased the potential and spirit of rehabilitated horses.
In addition to her work in rescue and advocacy, Cait is a respected social media influencer, using her platform to educate, inspire, and engage a broad audience about responsible animal ownership, the importance of rescue, and preserving the Western way of life.
Cait lives with her husband, Alex, and their son, Lawson. Their home is shared with three German Shorthaired Pointers, two of which are rescues. Her day-to-day life reflects her values: hands-on, purpose-driven, and committed to making a lasting impact.
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Alex Luca (Founder/Treasurer): Alex is the hands-on co-owner and Treasurer of Lucky Break Rescue (LBR), where he plays a vital role in both the day-to-day operations and the long-term mission of giving horses a second chance. Known for his strong work ethic and practical mindset, Alex is involved in everything from training and groundwork to facility upkeep and ranch planning.
An apprentice lineman by day, Alex balances a demanding career in the trades with life on the ranch. He ropes on his young rescue filly, Groovy Rose, a project that showcases his patience and belief in the potential of every horse they bring in. He has retired his first rescue, Mako, and can’t wait for him to teach their son how to ride.
Some of Alex’s favorite rescue moments are working cattle on friends’ ranches with horses LBR has saved and trained—a full-circle experience that proves just how capable and willing these horses are when given a shot.
You can often find Alex hauling horses, fixing anything that’s broken, and keeping things running behind the scenes. Though he’s the steady voice of reason at LBR, he always knows Cait will find a way to make room for just one more horse in need.
A passionate outdoorsman, Alex loves hunting, fishing, improving his horsemanship, and preserving the Western way of life. Alongside his wife, Cait, and their son, Lawson, he’s helping shape a family legacy built on grit, second chances, and respect for both land and livestock.
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Celeste Phillips (Secretary): Celeste is the Secretary of Lucky Break Rescue and a lifelong horsewoman with a deep passion for all things equine. As an adopter herself, Celeste brings a personal understanding of the impact that rescue and second chances can have, not just on horses, but on the families who welcome them home. Her journey with horses spans decades, and now continues through her daughter, who is following in her footsteps and thriving in the pony ring.
In addition to her hands-on experience with horses, Celeste brings a professional background in nonprofit marketing and communications. She actively serves organizations by helping them amplify their missions and connect with their communities. Her blend of equine expertise and strategic communication skills makes her a powerful advocate for the rescue’s mission and a key contributor to its continued growth and visibility.
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Moni PIz Wilson (Board Member / Donor) : Moni is a compassionate animal advocate, entrepreneur, mentor, and proud mother and grandmother. As the owner of Grandma’s Frozen Noodles, Moni built a business grounded in heart, quality, and community around a good meal —a legacy she carries into every area of her life.
A long-time supporter of Hope House Colorado, Moni has mentored and championed teen mothers through board service, generous donations, and meaningful personal connections. Whether inviting young women into her home or sponsoring events that celebrate their strength, she has become a trusted role model and was honored with the Hero of Hope Award for her deep impact and unwavering support.
Her compassion also extends to animals. Moni serves as a board member and donor for Lucky Break Rescue and has personally adopted several rescue horses. She and her husband, Robert L. share their South Dakota home with a beloved group of rescue dogs.
Moni finds joy in traveling, especially throughout the American West, and has a distinct love for western fashion, often blending bold style with authentic spirit. She cherishes time spent with her granddaughter, mentoring young women, and supporting causes that align with her values of kindness, faith, courage, and community.
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Desty Kamm (Board Member): is an accomplished quality and safety leader with over 20 years of experience in pediatric healthcare. Raised on a farm in Iowa, Desty spent her childhood riding horses, a passion that would later influence her professional and personal pursuits. Her dedication to healthcare began with her work as a pediatric intensive care unit nurse, and she further advanced her expertise by earning a master’s degree in health care quality and Patient Safety from Northwestern University. This academic achievement reinforced her commitment to making healthcare organizations safer and better for all children.
After two decades of professional success, Desty reconnected with her love of horses by rescuing Bobby, an experience she now shares with her two daughters. As a board member for Lucky Break Rescue, Desty brings together her enthusiasm for equestrian welfare and her devotion to children's well-being. She passionately advocates for giving every horse a second chance and believes in the profound impact that horses can have on children, offering them unique opportunities for connection and growth through riding.
Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Desty dedicates time to her husband and two daughters. Her interests include horseback riding, hiking, golf, travel, and fostering connections with friends and family.