Georgia animal sanctuary celebrates 10 years of providing lifelong refuge while expanding its vision for the future.
What began as a promise to provide a safe place for farm animals has grown into a decade of rescue, healing, education, and advocacy.
This year, Farm of the Free Animal Sanctuary celebrates its 10th anniversary, marking ten years of allowing rescued farm animals to live free from neglect, exploitation, and abuse. Since its creation in 2016, the nonprofit sanctuary has provided lifelong care to animals who once faced uncertain futures while inspiring thousands of visitors to see them not as commodities, but as individuals with unique personalities, relationships, and the capacity to thrive when given compassion.
Unlike traditional animal shelters, farm animal sanctuaries make a lifelong commitment to every resident they welcome. Many arrive with physical and emotional scars from lives in the agricultural system, neglect, abandonment, or other difficult circumstances. At Farm of the Free, they receive specialized veterinary care, nutritious food, safe shelter, and something many have never known before: the freedom to be themselves.
“Farmed animals have been heavily exploited and commodified. They’re often viewed only in terms of what they can provide for others rather than as unique individuals with their own preferences, personalities, and desires,” says co-founder Carmen Pope. “We wanted to create a place where nothing is expected of them except to be exactly who they are, a place where they can experience safety, autonomy, and the freedom to simply exist.”
Beyond animal care, Farm of the Free has become an educational resource for the community, welcoming visitors to meet rescued residents, learn about compassionate living, and better understand the realities facing farmed animals. Through tours, volunteer opportunities, and educational programming, the sanctuary encourages meaningful conversations about kindness, sustainability, and the connection between people and animals.
As the sanctuary celebrates its first decade, its focus is firmly on the future.
The organization recently launched its “Safe to Be: The Next Decade of Freedom“ campaign, an initiative designed to strengthen the sanctuary’s long-term sustainability while ensuring rescued animals continue receiving exceptional lifelong care. The campaign supports daily operations, veterinary expenses, habitat improvements, and the rescue of future residents in need.
One of those residents is Waylon, an almost 10-year-old cow receiving specialized veterinary treatment for hoof injuries. His recovery reflects both the challenges and the unwavering commitment that define sanctuary work: providing every animal with whatever care they need, for as long as they need it.
“Ten years ago, we set out with a simple promise: to give vulnerable animals a second chance at life. Reaching this milestone is proof of what a dedicated community can build together,” says Ryan Bulzan, Executive Director. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last decade, but even more excited for the lives we’ll save in the 10 years ahead.”
