About Rooterville Animal Sanctuary: Our Mission, Our Story
Welcome to Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping rescued farm animals live the lives they deserve. We believe every life is precious and deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. Located on 20 serene acres near Melrose, Florida, Rooterville is a haven where nearly 100 residents—from pigs and cows to chickens and goats—find the love, care, and freedom they deserve. We invite you to visit and meet these amazing animals and learn how your choices can make a profound impact on their welfare, the environment and your own health..
Our Mission & Vision: Why We Exist
At Rooterville, our existence is driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare and a vision for a kinder world.
Our Mission:
To rescue and provide a loving home for farm animals in need, while also educating the public and inspiring compassionate living. We are not accepting more animals at this time.
Our Vision:
A world free from cruelty, where kindness and compassion guide our choices toward each other, animals, and the planet.
Our Philosophy:
We believe in encouraging visitors and supporters to adopt compassionate, plant-based lifestyles. This isn't just about animal welfare; it's about fostering environmental sustainability and personal well-being. Education is a cornerstone of our philosophy, delivered through hands-on experiences designed to inspire empathy and critical thinking about animals, our food choices, and global sustainability. We focus on farm animals because they are among the most exploited creatures, and their stories often go unheard. Here, their voices are amplified, and their individual worth is celebrated.
The Rooterville Story: From Idea to Sanctuary
The journey of Rooterville Animal Sanctuary began in 2004 with the compassionate heart of our founder, Elaine West. What started with a focus on providing a safe home for unwanted pot-bellied pigs soon blossomed into a much larger mission. Elaine saw the immense need for a sanctuary that could offer refuge to all types of farm animals facing abuse, neglect, and despair.
From those early, challenging days, Rooterville has grown steadily, fueled by dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of our community. Each expansion of our acreage, every new barn built, and every new life welcomed, marks a significant milestone in our history. Rooterville is not just a place; it's the culmination of a deeply personal commitment to creating a world where animals can live free from fear and pain. It's a testament to what a compassionate vision can achieve.
Our Values: Guiding Principles
Every decision and action at Rooterville Animal Sanctuary is based on core values. These values define who we are and how we work
- Compassion: At the center of our work is a deep empathy for all living beings. This drives us to give the best care and respect.
- Education:
We believe in giving people knowledge. This helps them make better and kinder choices for animals, the planet, and their own health!
- Sustainability: We have one planet. Nothing determines the health of our earth more than our diet. It's that simple. By sharing how a typical American diet harms the environment, guests can make choices that reflect their values.
- Transparency: We operate with openness and integrity, ensuring our supporters understand how their contributions directly impact the lives of our rescued residents.
- Community: We create a friendly and welcoming space. Here, everyone—visitors, volunteers, and supporters—feels valued and included in our mission.
Meet the Heart of Rooterville: Our Team & Board
Rooterville's success shows the strong dedication of the people who work hard for our mission every day.
Everyone has an important role in creating this place. Our founder had a vision. Our staff and board members care deeply.
Our founder, Elaine West, is a disabled widow in her 60s. She cares deeply about animals. Elaine wants to make the world better. She encourages others to be kind and adopt a plant-based lifestyle.
Sharing Rooterville and the animals with guests brings her great joy. You really make her day if you choose to eat plants after your visit!
Our Impact: Transforming Lives
The true measure of Rooterville's work is in the changed lives of our animals. It is also in the growing community of caring people we inspire.
Over 100 Rescued Lives: Each year, we help many animals who would otherwise be in danger. We give them a second chance at a peaceful and dignified life.
Individual Success Stories: Discover the incredible journeys of our animals – from their rescue to their thriving lives at Rooterville. Their resilience is our greatest reward.
Community & Education Outreach: Our tours, educational programs, and public events reach thousands of visitors each year. We raise awareness about animal welfare and inspire kind choices.
A Model of Ethical Care:
We aim to show how to care for animals with compassion. We believe farm animals can live long, happy lives without being exploited.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, Rooterville remains committed to expanding our reach, enhancing our facilities, and deepening our impact. Our aspirations include reaching more animals in need, inspiring even wider audiences through innovative educational programs, and continuing to serve as a beacon of compassion for farm animals and the planet. Your support helps us build this future.
