About Us

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Mississippi Horses, Inc. was founded by Stephanie Billingsley to create a statewide network of horse lovers committed to the welfare of Mississippi’s equines. After years of helping rescues train and place horses, Stephanie recognized a critical need - not only for more safe havens for abused, neglected, and abandoned horses, but also for greater public education on proper care and humane handling.  Stephanie and her husband, Bill, generously provide the land and facilities that serve as the heart of this mission. What began as a small grassroots effort has grown into a collaborative network of volunteers, trainers, veterinarians, law enforcement, foster homes, and fellow rescues - working together to meet the rising need for equine rescue across the state.  Mississippi Horses is a proud member of the Homes for Horses Coalition, following their nationally recognized standards for rescue operations. The organization also participates in the Doris Day Foundation’s Plan4Progress program, which provides structured volunteer training to ensure safe, consistent handling - key to creating successful and lasting adoptions.  Recognizing that no single group could meet the need alone, Stephanie and her team of volunteers launched the Heart of the Horse Trainers Challenge in 2022 as a special project of Mississippi Horses. This innovative event pairs rescue horses with professional trainers from across the Southeast, showcasing their potential and promoting responsible ownership. It also supports equine-related businesses and careers, while inviting participation from other rescue organizations - continuing Stephanie’s mission to lift up and strengthen the entire rescue community. In just a few years, the Heart of the Horse Trainers Challenge has grown into one of the region’s premier independent equine events.