Building the Future of Jefferson’s Safe Haven

A NOTE FROM THE CO-FOUNDERS

When we founded Jefferson’s Safe Haven four years ago, we hoped to create more than simply a place of refuge for animals in need. We imagined a sanctuary where animals who had experienced abandonment, neglect, or surrender could finally live in safety and peace — and where people, too, could reconnect with compassion, community, and the natural world.

Over the years, it has been deeply moving to watch that vision come to life. What began with just a handful of animals has grown into a thriving sanctuary that has now provided refuge to more than 75 animals. We’ve watched volunteers form lasting bonds with the animals in their care, children experience the quiet joy of meeting a rescued alpaca or donkey for the first time, and community members find healing and connection simply by spending time here.

As Jefferson’s Safe Haven has grown, so too has the community of animals and people seeking connection here. We are receiving increasing requests for sanctuary placement and are excited to expand our ability to provide safe, climate-resilient shelter and lifelong care for even more rescued animals in the years ahead.

That is why we are so excited to share that Jefferson’s Safe Haven has officially launched a $550,000 Building the Future of Jefferson’s Safe Haven — and that we have already received our first leadership gift of $20,000 toward this effort. This next chapter will allow us to expand and climate-adapt the sanctuary barn, strengthen infrastructure, grow volunteer and educational programming, and increase our safe housing capacity from 40 animals to approximately 55 — growing the number of animals we can serve by nearly 40 percent. Much of the labor for this work will be donated by skilled community members and partners, making every philanthropic dollar go even further.

There is something incredibly powerful about seeing a dream that once felt small and uncertain slowly become real through the generosity, care, and belief of a community. Jefferson’s Safe Haven has always belonged not only to us, but to everyone who has shown up to care for these animals and help this sanctuary grow.

If you’d like to help there are three ways you can make a difference:

  1. Make a donation of any size to the future campaign.
  2. Recommend a foundation that supports animal welfare and/or climate adaptation.
  3. Become a part of the Build the Barn Crew!

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We are so grateful for all you have helped make possible — and excited for what lies ahead.

With gratitude

Tricia & Kathy, co-Founders

Jefferson’s Safe Haven