Update on Merger with Blackberry Creek Sanctuary

At Rancho Compasión, our unwavering commitment has always been to provide a loving and lifelong home for rescued farmed animals while advocating for a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle. We are deeply grateful for the support we've received from our community, donors, and volunteers who share our mission. 

Over the last few months, we embarked on a journey to merge with Blackberry Creek Sanctuary. Our hearts were aligned, driven by the shared goal of creating an even greater impact through the power of collaboration. However, as we delved into the process, we encountered fundamental differences in our respective approaches which have impacted our ability to move forward in this new partnership. Recognizing this, we realized that continuing together would not be in the best interest of our beloved sanctuary residents nor the sustainability of both organizations. As much as we had hoped for a better outcome, we agreed to "rewind” the initial stages of this partnership now before fully completing the merger. 

It is essential to emphasize that we are separating with the highest respect for Blackberry Creek Sanctuary. We are grateful to have been able to work alongside them, and honored to have cared for over 40 of their residents. We want to assure you that the animals entrusted to our care have been flourishing, and we will continue to treat them as our very own until they return to Blackberry Creek. Our collective dedication to animals, our planet, and community education remains steadfast. We still greatly believe in collaborating with other sanctuaries, and remain involved in LEAP, the nonprofit we helped co-found with Blackberry Creek and Jameson Humane.

In our seven years as a nonprofit, flexibly adapting to ever-changing circumstances – such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the recent avian flu threat and ongoing economic inflation – have made us a more resilient organization. In spite of these current unexpected challenges, we are progressing through with a shared resolve and commitment to serve our residents first. Recently the Blackberry Creek Sanctuary animals were carefully and thoughtfully returned to Colfax.

Looking ahead, Rancho Compasión remains dedicated to our mission more than ever. Earlier this year, we began many capital improvements to our facilities, such as adding pastures, improving outdated infrastructure, and renovating our parking and event areas. These necessary changes, while giving us the space to house the Blackberry Creek residents, have also established a foundation for Rancho Compasión’s future growth towards more public outreach, larger fundraising events, and greater volunteering opportunities. We look ahead with wisdom from this experience and excitement for our path forward. We invite you, our “farmily,” to stay involved as we announce our plans for the rest of the year. 

We understand that you may have questions, and encourage you to reach out to Cammy at info@ranchocompasion.org for any inquiries. Your support, understanding, and compassion mean the world to us and the animals we serve.

We want to express our gratitude for your ongoing support. It is a privilege to rescue and care for these beautiful creatures. We couldn’t do it without you and we can assure you that while plans may shift, our priorities remain constant. Together, we will continue to create a brighter future for the animals we cherish and the world we share.

With heartfelt appreciation, 

Rancho Compasión