A legacy of compassion.
For over 30 years, Jes MaHarry and her family have dedicated their lives to protecting animals in need. From rescuing horses and donkeys from the slaughter pipeline to providing sanctuary for neglected and abused animals, their work has always been driven by love, resilience, and an unshakable belief that every life matters.
The Sun Horse Foundation was born from that mission - to expand the reach of Jes’ lifelong commitment to animal welfare and create lasting change for those who have no voice.
WHO WE ARE
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Jes MaHarry is a force to be reckoned with. Her love for animals began as a young girl, her first word was “hor-he,” and that early bond grew into a lifelong devotion to animal rescue and advocacy. Compassion leads every decision she makes, whether in the barn or her creative studio.
Artist and jeweler, Jes is the founder of her eponymous jewelry and lifestyle brand in Ojai, Ca, Jes MaHarry Jewelry, where she lives surrounded by her family and her rescue sanctuary. Her work is deeply rooted in nature, ethical sourcing, and the spirit of animals, with each piece designed to carry intention and meaning.
Aside from the jewelry, Jes has dedicated her life to rescuing, protecting, and giving second chances to animals in need.
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Executive Director
Zela carries forward her mother’s tenacious passion with a grounded strength all her own. Raised on their rescue ranch in Ojai, CA, she and her siblings grew up surrounded by a menagerie of animals - learning early that compassion is not just a value, but a way of life.
From horseback riding before she could remember to joining rescue missions for abused and neglected animals, Zela was shaped by the hands-on experience and the quiet understanding that every life matters. That foundation evolved into action.
As Executive Director, she leads the ranch’s operations guiding rescue work with purpose. Her focus is not only care and rehabilitation, but also awareness - working to shed light on harmful industries impacting horses and to drive meaningful change.
At the heart of everything she does is a belief in the healing power of animals - and the responsibility to protect them.
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Treasurer
One of the Outdoor Industry’s most recognized and trusted voices, Hill’s career spans three decades of work with iconic, original brands as they evolved from the era of brick-and-mortar wholesale to their new digital multi-channel reality. Working at nearly every rung of the career ladder, Hill’s diversified career includes bike shop mechanic, river guide, retail floor, customer service, sales rep, sales manager, senior executive and company founder.
As the Executive Director of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, he guided a a values-driven community of 102 independent retailers and 100 brands working for the health and wellness of independent specialty outdoor retail. Hill’s executive roles include Prana vice president (2008-2012), Ibex Outdoor Clothing president (2006-2007), a Patagonia vice president (2000-2006), and Marmot vice president of sales(1998-1999). Hill’s consulting work includes Compass and Nail (2015-16), working as an experiential strategist on accounts including Sitka Gear and W.L. Gore, GU Energy Lab and Wanderlust. As an independent consultant (2008), Hill’s client roster included Amazon, Burton, and Competitive Cyclist. Rich has been working at Jes MaHarry Jewelry since January 2023.
What We Do
