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Written by Jeanne Chetnik
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"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. " - Margaret Mead
The words of Margaret Mead run true at Rikki's Refuge. The Refuge has changed the world for over 3,000 animals since August 1998 and has inspired so many dedicated, committed volunteers to continue making Rikki's Refuge a haven and heaven for the beloved animals. At Rikki's you will see compassion, unselfishness, and watch the animals bring out the very best traits that we as human beings sometimes have hidden deep down inside. It is so awesome to see how a brand, spanking new baby piglet, who was rejected by his mother, can bring out unbelievable gentleness and caring from people. I have watched volunteers work miracles with animals that have been so traumatized and abused that it has made me rejoice and cry at the same time. Rikki's Refuge is a 367-acre, no-kill, all species sanctuary, supported solely by donations from kind and loving individuals. Currently we have over 1,200 critters - 21 species!
Our mission: rescuing homeless, abandoned, abused and/or injured domestic and farm animals, providing medical care (traditional, alternative and holistic), finding suitable homes for adoption, and for many (the handicapped, elderly, unsocial, those displaced due to the death, incapacitation or displacement of their human companions) providing permanent shelter, care, love, and compassion.
-Maintaining 297-acres of pristine natural woodlands and wetlands where native Virginia Wildlife may always roam free.
-Providing a site for safe release and future home of rehabilitated native Virginia wildlife.
-Promoting awareness of the animal kingdom through educational newsletters/programs that teach compassion and kindness in over 27 classrooms.
-Promoting the reduction of the number of homeless animals through education and low-cost or free spay/neutering.
We have 10 tours and 2 open houses a year so that everyone can meet our wonderful critters. We have an adult and youth volunteer program with SO many things yet to accomplish. We invite you and your friends to visit Rikki's Refuge and see this wonderful refuge that is not only also a sanctuary for animals but human beings also.
Rikki's Refuge Animal Sanctuary 12th Anniversary Party!
Date: Sunday, August 15th, 2010
Time: 12 PM to 4 PM
Location: Rikki's Refuge, 10910 Barr Lane, Rapidan, (Orange County) VA 22733
Fee: Anniversary gift of 2 (or more) cans of cat/dog food per person
Phone: 540/854-0870 (ext 2)
www.rikkisrefuge.org
The gates open at 1130 AM. Take a tour and meet our critters ranging from curious emus to affectionate cats. The first tour starts at 1230 PM. Enjoy anniversary raffles, tantalizing party refreshments, music by Greg Allen (eclectoplasmacoustic folk'n rock), face painting, and a Children's Craft Corner. The entire event is outdoors so please dress for the weather, walking, and critters! |
