Journeys begin much earlier than we might at first think they do. Did this Sanctuary journey begin when I saved a caterpillar or a spider or a ladybug as a child, or fell in love with equines, or saw an injustice happen I was then powerless to change? Did it begin before the official Sanctuary was formed in December of 2016 when we started to rescue farmed animals in 2012? All likely!
In 2023, I can truly say that we are making progress in so many parts of the Sanctuary.
We are at full capacity for rescued farmed animals living onsite, this is true, and has been almost from the very beginning. This year for the first time I look out at the rescues and feel confident that we are doing our best for all species here for their quality of life (not just quantity) because each year we learn more. When you know more you do more, and do it better.
We continue to build strong relationships with other sanctuaries and rescue groups, so that we can save more individual farmed and domesticated/companion animals
The Sanctuary House and its land is now officially the property of the Sanctuary in 2023, a milestone we are so grateful to achieve. The remaining house and land will be the property of the Sanctuary upon John and my passing.
The Sanctuary has been awarded the $50,000 educational Felicia Rose Grant to start what we call “1000 Animal Ambassadors”. This special grant is awards exclusively for human-animal bonds in education, allowing us to grow our free school programs and Girl Scout programs. Outstanding!
And we are very delighted to announce our acceptance into the nationwide LEAP Program beginning this year as well. Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet (LEAP) provides education and training for high school students, and a college scholarship program as well. Students attend hands-on workshops at our Sanctuary, participate in service hours, and learn from many mentors. ”LEAPers will have many of the same opportunities that other agriculture programs offer – working with other LEAPers from around the region, participating in local events, learning from experts and mentors, receiving financial compensation for their work, and, of course, spending time with the animals–but without the financial and emotional burden of raising and showing a slaughter-bound animal.”
We can’t wait to get all the new programs started!
(Burton the puppy saying hello to Shiro and Ellie!)