Author: Robin Mason, GFAS

November 17, 2020 (Wernersville, PA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Holy Spirit Farm and Horse Sanctuary as of November 13, 2020.

Verification means that Holy Spirit Farm meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Holy Spirit Farm and Horse Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Holy Spirit Farm and Horse Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Holy Spirit Farm is dedicated to helping elderly and special needs horses but also has a robust adoption program. Their array of educational activities focuses on the wellbeing of both the horse and the human. In addition to providing excellent care, this organization is committed to management best practices.”

“To us, being verified through GFAS is a giant leap in our credentials as a sanctuary,” said Deana Reedy, President of Holy Spirit Farm and Horse Sanctuary. “Being a part of such a large network of individuals all working towards similar goals is an inspiring challenge. Not only must we maintain our standards, but also push on a daily basis to do better for the animals in our care, and those yet to come. We look forward to working towards accreditation and are thrilled to be verified within this fantastic network.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust. 

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Holy Spirit Farm and Horse Sanctuary
At Holy Spirit Farm Horse Sanctuary, the well-being of both horses and people is first and foremost. Our programs and activities are designed to be a catalyst that helps community members reach their goals and fulfill their potential, while also providing a refuge for horses in need of a soft landing. Learn more about the positive impact we have and join us in bringing about positive change. For more information, visit https://www.holyspiritfarmhorsesanctuary.com/

Download Verification press release.

November 12, 2020 (Saratoga Springs, NY) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, awarded Accredited status to the TRF Second Chances Program at the Lowell Correctional Institution in Florida, and the Eastham Sanctuary Farm in Virginia, both programs of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF).

Accreditation signifies that Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s two facilities meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine 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 that these two facilities of TRF are exceptional organizations.

“We are very proud to announce the Accreditation of the first two facilities of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s Second Chances Programs and Sanctuary Farms,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The mission of TRF is to help Thoroughbred horses that are no longer able to compete at racetracks. The TRF herd of more than 500 horses resides in two types of facilities/programs. The TRF Second Chances Programs are located at correctional facilities where inmates participate in vocational training in equine care and stable management. For those horses not suited for the TRF Second Chances Programs or adoption because of health care requirements, they are provided quality lifetime sanctuary at one of the Sanctuary Farms. In addition to providing excellent care to the horses, TRF is committed to management best practices and thoughtful strategic planning ensuring sustainability for future years.”  The TRF continues to work with GFAS to obtain accreditation for all of its farms.

“We are honored to be accredited by this highly regarded organization,” said Pat Stickney, Executive Director of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. “It has long been a goal of the TRF to obtain GFAS accreditation and we’re grateful to our Program Development Manager, Chelsea O’Reilly, and the staff at GFAS for working collaboratively to bring this accreditation to fruition. The TRF strives for the highest standards of care and best practices and the GFAS accreditation gives our donors confidence that their support is helping to provide our Thoroughbreds with the level of care they so deserve.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
Founded in 1983, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is a national organization devoted to saving Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete at the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse and slaughter. As the oldest Thoroughbred rescue in the country, the TRF provides sanctuary to retired Thoroughbreds throughout their lifetime. Best known for its pioneering TRF Second Chances program, the organization provides incarcerated individuals with vocational training through its accredited equine care and stable management program. At six correctional facilities across the country this program offers second careers to its horses and a second chance at life for inmates upon release from prison.

TRF cares for more than 500 rescued and retired Thoroughbreds at TRF Second Chances prison farms and Sanctuary Farms across the country.  The organization is funded entirely by private donations.  The TRF is accredited by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and has a Platinum rating with Guide Star. For more information visit: http://www.trfinc.org/

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October 16, 2020 (Plant City, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to RVR Horse Rescue as of October 13, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that RVR Horse Rescue meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed equine 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 RVR Horse Rescue as an exceptional organization.

“We are very proud to announce the transition from Verified to Accredited status, for RVR Horse Rescue,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “RVR Horse Rescue’s team of volunteers is quite possibly the most professional, dedicated and committed team of individuals that I have had the pleasure to meet. Their focus is helping equines that need them the most, those that have suffered greatly from neglect and abuse. And in this difficult work, they strive always to follow best practices of equine care and governance because these animals deserve no less when they enter a rescue organization’s care.”

“RVR Horse Rescue is honored to be a GFAS Accredited Organization,” said Shawn Jayroe, Founder and President of RVR Horse Rescue. “It announces to the world that RVR Horse Rescue meets the best standards of horse care and non-profit management and gives our supporters confidence that their donations are saving horses from abuse,
neglect, or injury. GFAS also opens doors for RVR to collaborate with peer organizations in the pursuit of animal welfare.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About RVR Horse Rescue
RVR Horse Rescue is a registered 501 (c) (3) Non Profit organization in Plant City, Florida. An all-volunteer organization,its mission statement is “ RVR Horse Rescue harnesses the power of volunteers to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home horses that have suffered abuse, neglect or injury.” RVR specializes in taking in the worst cases, working across the state with law enforcement agencies and other rescues to free horses from abuse and neglect. RVR’s experience in healing injuries makes it an ideal rehabilitation facility for Thoroughbreds whose racing career ends due to injury. RVR is committed to its community, offering the educational outreach program C.L.E.A.R, (Care, Learn, Educate, Act, Rescue), a safety net called RVR Angels, and a program to offer veterans respite from PTSD. For more information, visit us at https://rvrhorserescue.org.

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October 1, 2020 (Newberg, OR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Wildwood Farm Sanctuary as of September 25, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that Wildwood Farm Sanctuary meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed farm 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 Wildwood Farm Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the Accreditation of Wildwood Farm Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D. GFAS Program Director. “Shauna and her team ensure the highest level of humane and responsible care for each animal as an individual, regardless of their special needs. This beautiful farm provides a safe and healing environment for these animals to live out their lives. This sanctuary is also devoted to educating the public regarding the welfare issues affecting farmed animals and the need for greater empathy and compassion. This Is the mark of an organization that genuinely wants to make a difference in the lives of animals in their community.”

“Animals come here seeking refuge from a former life of abuse, neglect, or deprivation,” said Shauna Sherick, LVT, Founder and President of Wildwood Farm Sanctuary. Offering them lifelong sanctuary is both a privilege and tremendous responsibility. Accreditation requires a serious commitment on the part of the sanctuary and assures donors, volunteers, and the public that we are providing a high standard of care that allows these animals to heal, recover, and thrive.”

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Wildwood Farm Sanctuary
Located on 98 acres in Newberg Oregon, Wildwood Farm Sanctuary is a haven for farm animals and wildlife alike. We provide lifelong refuge and rehabilitation for abused and abandoned farm animals while lovingly protecting the property’s native plants, wetlands, woodlands, and wild animals. Through our mission and the lives of our beloved residents in this special place, we aspire to inspire! Our greatest hope is to help open eyes and reshape the way humans view and treat farm animals by considering a compassionate and cruelty-free way of living .For more information, please visit https://wildwoodfarmsanctuary.org/.

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September 30, 2020 (Broad Run, VA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Nalani Horse Rescue as of September 25, 2020.

Verification means that Nalani Horse Rescue meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Nalani Horse Rescue as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Nalani Horse Rescue,” said Daryl Tropea Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Nalani is Hawaiian for “the Heavens” and that is what this organization is for horses that end up in difficult situations. This team of volunteers is dedicated to helping one horse at time, ensuring that each horse gets all that is needed to find their final safe place. Each horse receives a thorough evaluation with a rehabilitation and training program individually designed. These volunteers and Board members are involved in a hands-on way, ensuring both responsible and humane equine care and organizational growth and sustainability.”

“As our rescue is growing, it was important to me that we have a strong foundation and implement best practices to provide the highest standard of care to our horses,” said Cherry Tapley, President of Nalani Horse Rescue. “Going through the process of certification from GFAS helped us learn about areas where we could improve our processes. Being recognized by GFAS is an honor and we look forward to learning from other rescues and sanctuaries who provide the same level of care that is so important to us.“
The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Nalani Horse Rescue
Nalani Horse Rescue is a non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to horse rescue and rehabilitation. Our mission is to provide horses in need of rescue with care, rehabilitation and training with the goal of finding them safe, forever homes. At Nalani, we are committed to giving these horses an opportunity to meet their potential in a loving, healthy and trusting environment. Nalani is located at Alanwood Farm, in Broad Run, VA. It is a peaceful haven for horses who have been through trauma. For more information, visit www.nalanihr.org.

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September 16, 2020 (Las Cruces, NM) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary as of September 15, 2020.

Verification means that Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “The Founders and Board Members of Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary have created a safe and nurturing environment for equines needing a soft landing that is a blend of traditional science, herbology, and years of horse care experience.  A paddock-grazing system and a unique shelter design contribute to ensuring the needs for horses are met as nature intended.”

“Verification with the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries means the world to us at Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary,” said Katharine Chrisley Schreiber, Executive Director of Dharmahorse. “The horses here need us on so many levels and most of them are in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s. They have special needs and require very diligent care, which we love providing because these cherished spirits have helped humans in so many ways. We owe a debt to them and can pay them back by taking proper care of them; giving them comfort and compassion; being gentle in all of our interactions and holding ourselves to the highest standard of horse husbandry. This recognition of our efforts and principles inspires us to continue developing programs and educational outreach, to help the Dharma Horses specifically and all horses in general.”

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Dharmahorse Equine Sanctuary
Our mission is to provide a safe and loving environment in which horses and humans can meet, interact, strive, and learn from each other. We support a process of organic, natural horsemanship pertaining to the care of our equine companions as well as a process of awakening within ourselves in order to live more mindful, compassionate and joyful lives. Our teachings are rooted in love, compassion, tolerance and understanding. For more information, please visit, http://www.dharmahorse.org/.

Download Verification press release.

August 25, 2020 (Tijeras, NM) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to New Mexico Farm Sanctuary as of August 21, 2020.

Accreditation signifies that New Mexico Farm Sanctuary meets GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed farm 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.

“We are proud to announce the Accreditation of New Mexico Farm Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D. GFAS Program Director. “Julie and her team were determined from the beginning to launch this new sanctuary based on best practices, and they certainly have. Although their policies and procedures are still evolving, their dedication to being a sanctuary of excellence in both animal care, management and governance is the mark of an organization that will make a difference for animals in New Mexico. We look forward to their successes as a model sanctuary in the future.”

“The work that is done at the GFAS is critical to not only the reputation of animal sanctuaries all over the world but to the care of the animals housed within those sanctuaries,” said Julie Cerros, Executive Director of New Mexico Farm Sanctuary. “Oversight of all areas of sanctuaries is necessary and must be transparent. The accreditation from the GFAS ensures that this is the case and that the sanctuaries are not only upholding the highest standards for the animals within their care but are financially stable and able to provide for those animals throughout their lifetime. With little regulation throughout the industry, GFAS accreditation should be sought out and achieved by all true sanctuaries.”

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About New Mexico Farm Sanctuary
New Mexico Farm Sanctuary is a farm animal sanctuary and protection organization that promotes compassionate vegan living through education, conservation, and advocacy. We exist to show how everyday choices make a difference to both sentient beings and the planet. For more information, please visit, http://www.nmfarmsanctuary.org/.

Download press release here.

August 17, 2020 (Vero Beach, FL) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to Equine Welfare Network as of August 12, 2020.

Verification means that Equine Welfare Network meets the criteria of a true equine sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Equine Welfare Network as an exceptional organization.

“We are proud to announce the recent Verification of Equine Welfare Network,” said Daryl Tropea, PH.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine. “Although a relatively new organization, Equine Welfare Network looked to GFAS standards for guidance from the beginning so they could truly develop a model equine rescue and sanctuary organization of excellence. Also, this organization offers many resources to horse owners in their community including education on care and nutrition. They are committed to collaborating with equine organization throughout the state. This dedication and professionalism are the mark of an organization that genuinely wants to make a difference in lives of equines in Florida.”

Cami Kanner, Equine Welfare Network Inc. Founder and Executive Director, said it is of utmost importance to establish a uniform standard of care at sanctuaries, rescue centers, and rehabilitation centers throughout the world. “We are both honored and excited to be a part of the GFAS family. Their support and commitment helped our organization improve our quality of care, management, and governance on all levels. We are proud to operate our organization in accordance with the GFAS Standards of Excellence,” Kanner said.

The GFAS Equine Accreditation Program is made possible by a generous grant from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® and the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust.  

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Equine Welfare Network.
Equine Welfare Network Inc. is a group of professionals, equine organizations and volunteers working together to promote and ensure a standard of care for horses throughout our communities. Our primary focus is advocacy, awareness and education. We are dedicated to equine welfare. Our mission is to develop a network of resources throughout our communities to assist struggling owners and their horses. We also strive to compliment the efforts of our local law enforcement agencies and animal rescue groups. By uniting our efforts, we hope to raise awareness and address challenges in our equine communities. For more information, please visit, https://equinewelfarenetwork.org.

Download press release here.

August 3, 2020 (Spokane, WA) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Verified status to River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary as of July 27, 2020.

Verification means that River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary meets the criteria of a true farm animal sanctuary/rescue and is providing humane and responsible care of the animals. To be awarded Verified status, an organization must meet GFAS’s rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a site visit and they must also adhere to a demanding set of ethical and operational principles. The Verification status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are excited to announce the recent Verification of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary,” said Daryl Tropea, Ph.D., GFAS Program Director-Equine and Farm Animals. “Co-founders Kit and Peter Jagoda are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care for their 140 resident animals which include equines, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, birds, dogs and cats. The founders are artists and their love of animals is evident in their artwork.  Though their central mission is to provide lifelong sanctuary for their residents, they do provide a special adoption program just for rabbits and occasionally other animals. River’s Wish has no intention of stopping with GFAS Verification but intend to apply for Accreditation as soon as possible. We fully expect them to be successful!”

“Farmed animals frequently receive minimal regard or protection, thereby making GFAS even more vital in establishing and maintaining policies and standards of care,” said Kit Jagoda, Executive Director of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary. “Our dedicated and compassionate volunteer community works hard to ensure the well-being of the animals and to provide them with a loving environment. We are committed to long term sustainability while meeting our mission of saving lives through rescue, education, and advocacy. Working with the GFAS has been and will continue to be a central guiding factor for growth and sustainability.”

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 The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary
The mission of River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary is to save lives through rescue, education and advocacy. River’s Wish provides refuge to animals in need through rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, and lifelong sanctuary.  We offer Humane Education through Art and Animal workshops, Garden to Table workshops, Compassion for Animals and Compassionate Living workshops.  We are House Rabbit Society educators. River’s Wish is home to equines, bovines, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, dogs, cats, chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks. River’s Wish is the oldest animal sanctuary in Eastern Washington. Located on 65 acres adjacent to Riverside State Park, we have been involved in rescue and sanctuary since 1994. For more information, please visit, www.riverswishanimalsanctuary.org/.

Download press release here.