Melanie Sue Bowles, along with her husband, Jim, is the founder of Proud Spirit Horse Sanctuary, now located in Mena, Arkansas, one of the most successful and longest-existing facilities for horses in the United States. Proud Spirit has intervened on behalf of nearly 300 abused, neglected, and unwanted equines, and has also rescued several dozen dogs and cats, many of whom have become members of the family. Melanie has these words etched on her heart: ldquo;The Purpose of life is to live a life of purpose.rdquo; Her website is www.horsesofproudspirit.org.