Our Story
Rising Starr Horse Rescue is powered by a compassionate team of veterinarians, staff, and volunteers dedicated to rehabilitating each horse with individualized care. Their goal is to ensure every horse becomes healthy, confident, and ready for a loving forever home, while also educating the public about the cruelty of horse slaughter and ways to reduce the number of unwanted horses in the U.S.
Founded in 2015 by Kelly Stackpole, Rising Starr was born after she discovered that many young, healthy, and senior horses were being discarded and sent to slaughter. What began as rescuing one horse at a time quickly became a mission of rescue and advocacy for America's at risk horses and the people who love them. Today, volunteers of all ages—supported by both a Board and Junior Board—treat every horse with the love and respect they deserve while inspiring compassion and leadership in the next generation. RSHR Rescues horses, and thr rescued horses are now helping the humans through our many programs.
Kelly Stackpole
Founder & Executive Director
Kelly has been professionally teaching riders and training horses for more than thirty-five years. After many years teaching and training at the national level, she chose to focus on non-competitive instruction, supporting students and horse owners who want to be fully involved in the journey of horse ownership and build a meaningful, lasting relationship with their horse.
Kelly founded Rising Starr Horse Rescue as a way to give back to the animals she loves so deeply, while also creating an outlet for others to share, learn, and grow through their love of horses.
Board of Directors
The Rising Starr Horse Rescue Board of Directors provides leadership and oversight to support the organization’s mission. United by a passion for equine welfare, the Board ensures responsible governance, sustainability, and continued impact for horses in need.
