About Us

After the tragic loss of my eldest son, Adam, in 2009, I sought conventional healing methods but found no relief. It was during this difficult time that I was asked to rescue a miniature donkey bonded to a wild Mustang. Little did I know, this would become my life’s calling. These animals helped me process my pain, suffering, and grief in a way no human ever could—without judgment. I often slept in the barn, which, back then, was just a humble tuff shed. It was there that my healing began, and I realized how many other mothers who had lost their children could benefit from this kind of therapy.

By word of mouth, more rescues began arriving. Financial limitations meant I could only rent a home and property, which restricted the number of animals I could care for. Still, I held onto the dream of owning land where animals could retire and live free from suffering. Finally, that dream came true, and I was able to purchase three acres with a home. It became a sanctuary for many senior and displaced animals.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the animals provided comfort to so many. I offered a no-contact experience, allowing people to drive by and feed the animals, and there was a steady stream of visitors. Even now, people talk about how the animals lifted their spirits during such a challenging time. Our animal numbers grew significantly as people, facing financial difficulties, had to surrender their pets.

After five years, I knew I had to move the animals from the harsh, freezing conditions at 6,300 feet of elevation. The frigid winters were too hard on the elderly animals. In 2022, everything changed. I secured 70 acres in a warmer climate, allowing me to finally realize my vision. With the community's support, the sanctuary can now reach new heights.

But this isn’t just an animal sanctuary. My vision is to open the property to women, children, special needs groups, schools, and like-minded organizations. The bond between animals and humans creates a synergistic healing experience for all who visit.

Today, the sanctuary is home to 99 animals—100 if you count this silly goose:

• 5 donkeys
• 3 sheep
• 2 llamas
• 1 lampaca (half llama, half alpaca)
• 2 emus
• 1 ostrich
• 9 goats
• 4 pigs
• 4 cats
• 6 dogs
• 9 chickens
• 5 peacocks
• 6 pigeons
• 12 doves
• 3 turkeys
• 5 ducks
• 3 bearded dragons
• 2 canaries
• 7 parakeets
• 3 cockatiels
• 5 rabbits
• 2 turtles

The sanctuary is a tribute to my son, Adam Mathew Stokes, whose life was dedicated to being a voice for animals and humans who couldn’t speak for themselves. He believed in equality for all beings.

I’ve saved this many animals on my own—imagine what I could do with your support. Help me continue to help them!