About Us
Founded in 2019, Stay in the Fight Veterans Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports Veterans of North Texas who have suffered some kind of injury in combat, either physical or mental, and need support to help them achieve a healthy and successful life.
These veterans are considered high risk due to their injuries, and their needs span the spectrum from homelessness all the way to job training and executive coaching, and every situation in between.
In 2024, a new board enthusiastically took the helm, dedicating themselves to understanding the world of equine therapy and the needs of justice-involved veterans within the Collin County community. Their commitment led to a highly successful rebranding event in May 2025. This event brought much-needed awareness to the many Texas veterans and their families who are on their redemption journey, reminding them that they have our unwavering support and care.
Board of Directors
Alicia Freeman
President
Alicia Freeman, a proud wife and mother of four from McKinney, Texas, has a diverse professional background. She spent the early part of her career as the owner/operator of three successful salons in Northern California, handling everything from design to daily operations. Alicia served as President of PAINTS (Promoting Art IN The Schools) from 2008-2012, leading fundraising efforts that supported arts in education. In 2022, she and her husband Myles founded a philanthropy that supports animal shelters, food banks, and veteran causes, including a partnership with the National Medal of Honor Museum. Alicia has been doing equine therapy since 2012.
Myles Freeman
Treasurer
Myles Freeman is the President and Co-Owner of Wiley X, Inc., a leading manufacturer of premium protective eyewear for both consumers and the U.S. Armed Forces. Myles led the global sales efforts for the company from 1996 to 2022, Wiley X’s sales grew from $2.6 million to over $45 million. Before Wiley X, Myles was Vice President of Customer Service at Fidelity National Home Warranty. He holds a degree from Heald Business College and has earned multiple executive awards. Alongside his wife Alicia, Myles established The Myles and Alicia Freeman Philanthropy, supporting various charities.
Jessica Stott
Secretary
Jessica Stott began her career in insurance, managing commercial real estate and construction accounts for 10 years. She later specialized in energy property at Willis Insurance, handling a $50 million portfolio. After moving to Frisco, Texas, Jessica became deeply involved in her children’s PTA, earning the National PTA Life Achievement Award. Transitioning into therapeutic riding, she became a certified instructor and Program Coordinator at ManeGait Therapeutic Riding, where she managed volunteer programs and fundraising efforts for seven years. Jessica earned her PATH Intl. Mentor certification, guiding others in achieving their therapeutic riding instructor credentials.
Staff
Megan Hamlin
Director of Development
Megan Hamlin serves as the Director of Development for the Stay In The Fight Veterans Foundation, a role to which she brings nearly two decades of non-profit experience. Megan began her career in California as a middle school teacher and college professor before transitioning to the non-profit sector in 2008.
For nine years, she worked as a non-profit consultant before joining a California parks and recreation district in 2017 and taking on a unique role. There, she oversaw the district’s foundation, managing all events, projects, and financials. Her responsibilities included cultivating donor and community relationships, securing event sponsorships, and managing annual pledges. She was also a key liaison with government officials and agencies, including the County of Ventura and various city departments. A unique part of her role included serving as a co-host for the monthly City Scene TV show.
Megan loves spending time with her family at the barn or enjoying the outdoors. You can often find her at a rodeo, watching sports, or wine tasting, and she cherishes every opportunity to get together with friends and family, enjoying God’s beauty.
Healing Herd
Murphy
Murphy is a handsome 16-year-old gelding with a striking sorrel coat, a cross between a Thoroughbred and a Quarter Horse. This retired barrel horse has a personality as big as his heart. While he may not be motivated by carrots or watermelon, he has a sophisticated palate and only accepts real horse treats. Murphy loves nothing more than a good groom, a leisurely trail ride with his favorite people, and spending his days grazing peacefully in the pasture. He is a gentle soul who is ready to form a strong bond with anyone he meets.
Teddy
Teddy is a gentle 19-year-old Thoroughbred gelding with a handsome bay coat. This retired polo horse is often the first to greet you at the gate, always eager for a carrot or a horse treat. While he’s the sweetest boy, he has a playful side, earning a reputation for making a magnificent mess with his alfalfa. Teddy loves a good booty scratch and has a special talent for calming a new rider, making him the perfect horse to lead a very first walk around the arena. An incredibly versatile and caring companion, he is comfortable in both a Western and English saddle, offering our riders a variety of options. Teddy is a truly wonderful addition to the herd.