A legacy of compassion.
For over 35 years, Jes MaHarry and her family have dedicated theirto protecting animals in need. From rescuing horses from kill pens to providing a safe haven for neglected and abused creatures, her passion has always been fueled by love, resilience, and an unshakable belief that every animal deserves kindness.
The Sun Horse Foundation was born from that mission, to expand the impact of Jes' lifelong commitment to animal welfare and create a lasting change for those who have no voice.
Our Mission.
Rescuing animals facing cruelty, neglect, or homelessness.
Rehabilitating and providing sanctuary to those in need.
Rehoming animals when possible, ensuring they find loving families.
Raising awareness to inspire compassionate action.
Funding and supporting like-minded organizations to expand our reach
At Sun Horse Foundation, we are committed to:
100% of your donations go directly to helping animals. Every dollar provides food, medical care, and shelter - ensuring that each rescued animal receives the love and protection they deserve.
The Animals We’ve Helped
Each year, we rescue and rehabilitate animals in need, including:
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Horses And Donkeys
Once abandoned and unwanted, now safe, healed, and loved.
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Dogs
Rescued from abuse. Saved from neglect. Pulled from the brink of euthanasia.
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Other Sanctuary Rescues
Sheep, goats, cows, pigs, and rabbits - all deserve a second chance at life with us.
How We Work
Funded by Giving – 1% of Jes MaHarry’s revenue supports our foundation, along with generous donations from people like you.
Rescue & Rehabilitation – We actively care for animals, ensuring they receive proper medical treatment, nourishment, and a safe space to heal.
Collaboration & Impact – We work with other rescue organizations to extend our reach, knowing that together, we can do more.
Meet Our Team
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Executive Director
Zela Henderson has been surrounded by animals since the moment she was born. Placed on a horse at just six months old, she developed a deep love for animals at a very young age. Zela grew up in a lively household with baby goats as siblings and dogs as her closest companions. Her rescue journey began when she saw her mother's passion for taking in neglected and abused animals. The process of rehabilitation and rehoming became a true gift, and she began to deeply appreciate their four-legged friends, connecting with their sensitivity on a deeper level. Zela became her mother's right-hand person on rescue missions; her knowledge of animals in need grew, and her passion for animal rescue blossomed. She has ambitious goals for this work, and with the Sun Horse Foundation, she'll have the opportunity to build upon the 30+ years of rescue efforts they’ve already accomplished.
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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.com, Burton, and Competitive Cyclist. Rich has been working at Jes MaHarry Jewelry since January 2023.