October 9, 2025 (Good Hope, GA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary as of August 9, 2025.
Accreditation signifies that Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary (FOTF) meets GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education, outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize FOTF as an exceptional organization.
“From the moment I stepped onto the sanctuary, Farm of the Free has struck me not only as a welcoming place of freedom for animals, but a professional, clear-eyed organization creating a safe space in their community” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. She continues, “Small in size but mighty in impact, Farm of the Free not only provides a loving home for rescued farmed animals but has also created an important safe space for animal advocates and vegans. This invitation to the community to support their work and be a part of it has created the type of outreach opportunity we know creates greater change. The warmth, intentionality and enthusiasm they bring to sanctuary work is wonderful to witness and we couldn’t be happier to welcome them into the GFAS family.”
Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary’s mission is “creating a space where every being feels safe to be exactly who they are.” Our vision is to foster a compassionate society through immersive education and advocacy, promoting veganism and a world where every individual is respected and valued. “We aim to provide a safe, loving home for rescued farm animals, prioritize their comfort and health, and serve as a beacon for compassionate living” says Ryan Bulzan, Executive Director.
He continues, “By inspiring people to make ethical choices, our goal is to create a future where harmony between humans and animals is the norm. Our GFAS accreditation is a huge achievement! Since opening in 2017, we’ve grown into a thriving sanctuary for chickens, goats, sheep, cows, and donkeys. Most recently, we welcomed four rescued cows who now live in our expanded Paddock Paradise pasture. This year, we also brought our educational work into the classroom with a presentation at the University of Georgia, sharing residents’ stories and the importance of compassionate living. We also partnered with a student group at Emory University to create a consistent stream of new volunteers at the sanctuary.
We continue to build community through events like our annual Flocktoberfest fundraiser, monthly Volunteer + Vegan Potluck Days, and regular social nights at local vegan restaurants who partner with us. These gatherings allow supporters to connect, celebrate compassion, and uplift businesses that share our mission. Looking ahead, we plan to transform unused land on the sanctuary with new enclosures and fencing so we can rescue more animals and tell their stories.
GFAS Accreditation is both a validation and a milestone. It affirms that Farm of the Free meets the highest standards for animal care, safety, and nonprofit governance. For our team, it’s recognition of the countless hours that caregivers, volunteers, and board members dedicate every day. For our supporters, it’s reassurance that their donations directly fuel ethical, sustainable, and compassionate care. Most of all, it celebrates how far we’ve come and sets the stage for the future impact we’re ready to make.”
About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at Humane World for Animals, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.
About Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary
Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary’s mission is “creating a space where every being feels safe to be exactly who they are.” Our vision is to foster a compassionate society through immersive education and advocacy, promoting veganism and a world where every individual is respected and valued. After being founded in 2017, FOTF has rescued many farm animals in need. They provide a safe haven for residents to live out their natural lives. To learn more visit www.farmofthefree.org.