THE POWER OF VOLUNTERING AT HEEFS

by Kevin Weil, Facilities Manager

What happens when 20 to 30 caring volunteers show up at the sanctuary with sleeves rolled up and hearts wide open?

A lot, actually.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve had the joy of hosting several incredible volunteer work groups—and thanks to them, the sanctuary is shining brighter than ever!

Here’s just some of what they tackled:

🌾 Cleaned and cleared our resident pastures: giving our goats, sheep, and other friends safer, tidier spaces to roam.

🪑 Built cozy outdoor rest spots for visitors and volunteers alike to relax and take in the sights and snuffles.

🧹 Dusted the barn from top to bottom: because a clean space makes for happy, healthy residents.

🩺 Organized our Medical Suite to help our care team respond quickly when any resident needs a little extra TLC.

🌱 Jumpstarted the garden that will soon grow treats and enrichment for our residents to enjoy.

Of course, the work is just part of the story. For many, volunteering becomes something more…

"I thought I was just showing up for my volunteer shift to clean some stalls, make some meals, and change some waters. I thought I was there to help the animals, but they ended up helping me!"

– Longtime volunteer, Susan

Volunteers bring more than just helping hands—they bring community. Their presence reminds us that we’re not in this alone. We’re part of a growing network of people who care deeply about animals, land, and kindness.

To every volunteer who showed up: thank you.

To every donor reading this: you made this possible. Your support keeps the gates open, the tools stocked, and our residents safe so volunteers can step in and make a difference.

Together, we’re building a sanctuary that’s more than a safe haven—it’s a movement.