My Nonprofit Reviews

I am a long-term volunteer and sponsor of The Gentle Barn. I can attest to the fact that each week that I arrive to work with the barnyard animals that they are well taken care of, loved, and respected. All of the current volunteers and staff who work there care about the well-being of the animals. My job includes interacting with the animals to give them the attention they deserve and want. I brush the goats, sheep, and pigs. I keep the barnyard and stalls clean by raking up poop and sweeping. I make sure that there's always fresh water available for the animals to drink. But, most importantly, I make sure that each and every animal is loved and shown kindness.
In all my years of volunteering at The Gentle Barn, I have never seen an animal mistreated, but just the opposite. When any animal needs medical attention, a vet is summoned right away, if necessary. I have personally witnessed a vet providing care to goats with arthritic problems and treating other animals on numerous occasions. Health-related problems of any of the animals are always reported to the office or to Ellie, herself. In my experience, the proper and expected actions have always been taken to insure that the health and well-being of the animals is foremost. Regular maintenance is also done to assure that animals are cared for properly. Hooves are maintained, and the sheep are sheared before the hot months of summer each year. One would have to question the motivations of many of the one star reviewers who allege that the animals are not cared for properly, or that The Gentle Barn is nothing but a glorified petting zoo. Far from the truth, ... one of the main purposes of The Gentle Barn is to educate the public about animal abuse and the work that goes on daily there. That is why it is open to the public only one day of the week and only between 10 am and 2pm, instead of being open everyday. Most of the animals love the extra attention given them on Sundays. The good work continues at The Gentle Barn during the weekdays, when children from schools, disadvantaged homes, senior citizens, disabled adults and children, troubled youth, and abused children and teens have an opportunity to visit with the animals, learn to respect all living things, and help with the healing process. Be the judge yourself, rather than give credence to the negative reviews that some want you to believe due to a hidden agenda. Come visit The Gentle Barn on a Sunday, and make up your own mind. As for myself, I will continue to financially support and volunteer for this organization, because I've personally seen the good work it does.

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