My Nonprofit Reviews
lorrin
Review for Serenity Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation, Maple Valley, WA, USA
I've volunteered at Serenity for almost 2 years now - mucking out stalls, picking paddocks, grooming & socializing horses, riding when we have time. I also do new volunteer orientation, fundraising and outreach. Serenity is a young rescue, only 3 years old, and has done a remarkable job with limited resources. They have rescued over 75 horses, as well as some pigs. The farm is run without pesticides and chemicals, to honor the environment as well as the animals' health, and every horse gets regular personal attention - from loving and grooming to vet, dental and farrier care. Everyone I know who is currently involved with Serenity takes their responsibility to the horses seriously, and does everything they can to keep the horses happy and healthy while we look for new homes for them. When I first volunteered, I had no idea what to expect, knowing that most of the horses had been rescued from abusive or neglectful situations and therefore they would have every reason to distrust humans and be unpredictable or dangerous. I found the exact opposite - the horses know they have found sanctuary at Serenity, and are generally calm, trusting and sweet. I have been volunteering at least weekly and I think sometimes it's as healing for me as it is for the horses! I trust the horses and they trust Serenity - to me, that is a strong endorsement.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
... rehabilitating badly abused and neglected horses to both physical and mental health ... continuing to focus on the horses' wellbeing in spite of financial and other challenges
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
... continue to recruit experienced board members who can competently represent the rescue's best interests ... continue to diversify the donor base to minimize risk to regular fundraising initiatives
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
... being able to be around and help these wonderful animals, getting to know their unique personalities and learning from them about healing and trust.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
... big hearted and deeply well-intentioned (those who are still involved with the organization)
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
..keep operating! ..run promotional campaigns to drive adoptions ..get all the equipment (like the tractor and horse trailers) fixed/maintained ..pay the vet bills ..hire farm help ..build a state-of-the-art compost facility & buy paddock poo vacuums
Ways to make it better...
... we had more funds and volunteers so we could spend more quality time with the horses and focus more on finding them great homes sooner.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
...recovering from the undermining effects of some now ex board members who were inexperienced in competently representing a non profit
One thing I'd also say is that...
... before you make up your mind about Serenity, visit the farm - meet the horses and the volunteers, and check out the facility. Saturdays 9-noon. Make an informed decision. We would love your support!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
