Rancho Compasión After School Program
Rancho Compasión, 2600 Nicasio Valley Rd., Nicasio, CA 94946
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Participants in this program spend one day per week after school at our beautiful sanctuary and education center, helping out with animal care, working in the garden, doing arts and crafts, discussing interesting topics, and sharing ideas. Learning occurs naturally due to the opportunities inherent at the sanctuary and the natural curiosity of young minds. We offer 8-week sessions for your convenience in planning, as well as to allow participating youth to experience cyclical changes in the garden and the consistent devotion to our residents; however, single-day drop in options are also available.
Policies
As a farmed animal sanctuary, our animal residents are a top priority. Our rescued residents have come from various situations of neglect, exploitation, etc. and therefore not all are comfortable around groups of people. We ask that any person who steps foot on the property respect our residents' agency, safety, and the fact that this is their home. That means allowing them to walk away if they choose, refraining from chasing or touching animals, keeping all gates closed and not entering habitats without staff permission, not feeding them anything without approval, etc. We are NOT a petting zoo - some animals enjoy contact, but please ask a staff member prior to touching any of the residents. Similarly, it is important to keep voice levels down and refrain from running or moving quickly around the animals.
Attire:
The sanctuary property is a natural space and home to 100 different animals. Expect to encounter poop and get muddy and dusty and dress accordingly with comfortable, durable clothing. Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes (ideally with ankle support) as ground is natural and uneven. Prepare for any weather, as the microclimate is at times unpredictable.
Food on the Property:
We are a strictly vegan organization and property in respect of the animals we work to protect and care for. Any food or beverage brought to or consumed on the property MUST BE FULLY VEGAN, meaning free of any flesh, animal dairy, eggs, honey, or other secretions. If you have any questions about this, feel free to get in touch.
Location
Rancho Compasión, 2600 Nicasio Valley Rd., CA 94946
Rancho Compasión is a farmed animal sanctuary and education center in Nicasio. Our youth education program, Friends and Food, allows children the opportunity to interact with and learn about our rescued animal residents, as well as spend time time learning in our education garden, where we grow food for the residents, staff, visitors, and students. The beautiful property housing the sanctuary provides endless opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors, making this a sanctuary for all who step foot on the land.
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