Harmony Farm Sanctuary is Accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries

December 12, 2024 (Bend, OR) – The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), the only globally recognized organization providing standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries, awarded Accredited status to Harmony Farm Sanctuary as of October 23, 2024.

Accreditation signifies that Harmony Farm Sanctuary meets GFAS’ rigorous and peer-reviewed animal care standards which are confirmed by a comprehensive site visit. Accreditation also signifies adherence to standards addressing the sustainability of the organization, ethical principles, finances, staffing, education, outreach, security and safety and other operational aspects. The Accreditation status also provides a clear and trusted means for the public, donors, and grantors to recognize Harmony Farm Sanctuary as an exceptional organization.

“We are so pleased to announce the Accreditation of Harmony Farm Sanctuary and welcome them into the GFAS family,” said Jessica Harris, MS, GFAS Farmed Animal Program Director. “It was clear to me in every interaction with Harmony Farm Sanctuary that they operate with true compassion and integrity – with humans and non-human animals alike. Their hard work showed during the application process, but it was clear that years of hard work have set them up for success. Their attention to detail paired with an empathy and conscientiousness permeates all they do. Their service to the community, along with the greater sanctuary movement, is admirable and we can’t wait to see all the future holds for this incredible organization and its residents.”

“Harmony Farm Sanctuary is proud to announce that we have achieved official Accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS)” comments Robine Bots, Executive Director at Harmony Farm Sanctuary.

She continues, “This recognition signifies the sanctuary’s adherence to the highest standards of animal care, organizational sustainability, and ethical operations in the animal rescue and sanctuary field. Harmony Farm Sanctuary, nestled in beautiful Central Oregon, is home to over 145 rescued farmed animals, including cows, pigs, alpacas, turkeys, goats, horses, donkeys and chickens and more. All of our animals are saved from neglect, abuse, abandonment, exploitation or being unwanted. Founded on the principles of compassion and advocacy, the sanctuary not only provides lifelong care for our residents but also works tirelessly to promote animal welfare. Through rescue and rehabilitation efforts, as well as our free Compassionate Curriculum, the sanctuary educates the community— especially youth and differently-abled individuals—about the sentience of farmed animals and the importance of kindness toward all beings. Earning GFAS accreditation is a significant milestone for Harmony Farm Sanctuary, underscoring our dedication to maintaining the highest levels of care for our animal residents and transparency in its operations. This accreditation validates the hard work and heart that our team pours into every aspect of the sanctuary. It reaffirms our commitment to providing a safe and loving environment for the animals in our care while striving to inspire change in how society views and treats farmed animals.”

About Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries
Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the sole purpose of strengthening and supporting the work of animal sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers worldwide. The goal of GFAS in working with and assisting these animal care facilities is to ensure they are supported, honored, recognized and rewarded for meeting important criteria in providing care to the animals in residence. GFAS was founded in 2007 by animal protection leaders from a number of different organizations in response to virtually unchecked and often hidden exploitation of animals for human entertainment and financial profit. The GFAS Board of Directors guides the organization’s work in a collaborative manner. While the board includes those in top leadership at The Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and American Anti-Vivisection Society, all board members serve as individuals dedicated to animal sanctuaries. www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

About Harmony Farm Sanctuary
Harmony Farm Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating neglected, unwanted, and abused farmed animals, building a kinder and more inclusive community, and advocating for a sustainable food system free from harm.

For more information, please visit: www.harmonyfarmsanctuary.com

Download Accreditation Press Release