Kindness isn’t just welcome at Harmony Farm Sanctuary; it’s practically part of the dress code. Recently, K-12th grade students went on a K12 Virtual Field Trip to Harmony Farm Sanctuary to learn about kindness and meet their rescued farm animals. Farm sanctuaries offer a unique haven for learning while also demonstrating the values of care and compassion.
From the comfort of home, students met their resident animals while learning about the sanctuary’s role and mission.
Missed the K12 Virtual Field Trip? Click here to watch the recording of Farmyard Explorers: Discover Harmony Farm Sanctuary on YouTube.
Our Virtual Journey to Harmony Farm Sanctuary
During this K12 Virtual Field Trip students met Robine Bots, founder, executive director and animal care manager of Harmony Farm Sanctuary. Robine started the virtual field trip by introducing us to one of their animal ambassadors, Serious, an 8.5 year old turkey.
Barnyard Buzz
After meeting Serious, Robine took us on a tour of their main barnyard. The barnyard is a harmonious open and dry space with roaming sheep, pigs, alpacas, and more. She was quickly greeted by a fuzzy, black lamb called Chai.
After, we met a sleepy pig called Lincoln who was resting in the shade. He enjoyed getting pets and cuddles from Robine while she shared more about his story and answered students’ questions about pigs and caring for them.
Goat Moments, Great Memories
We made our way to the goats and were greeted by Shadow, Harmony Farm’s oldest goat resident. Not long after, more goats came to say hello including Hazel, Blossom Celery, and Jazzy.
While visiting the goats, Robine shared the inspiring story of Lulu. Born with a leg injury, Lulu was rescued by Harmony Farm and fitted with a custom brace to help her walk. After wearing it for about 2.5 years, Lulu has grown stronger and now walks on her own! Proof that healing with love really works.
A Hop into Happiness
We hoped over to meet the bunnies of Harmony Farm and were greeted by two friendly sanctuary volunteers who are preparing to build another outdoor bunny enrichment area.
Here, students met a Lionhead bunny called Lady Lighting. Robine shared what it’s like to care for long-haired rabbits and talked about how bunnies often end up living in sanctuaries.
Finally, we met a large bunny called Smudge. Robine shared more about what goes into caring for bunnies such as the importance of having the right habitat and proper socialization.
The virtual field trip wrapped up with more student questions and fun comments from the Q&A section.
About Harmony Farm Sanctuary
Located in mountainous Bend, Oregon, Harmony Farm Sanctuary is a 10-acre haven for 157 rescued farm animals.
It is a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and providing lifelong care for farm animals. It fosters compassion and advocates for sustainable and cruelty-free free food systems.
The sanctuary and its team of volunteers care for over 150 rescued animals including:
- Farm animals: A cow, horses, donkeys, pigs, sheep, goats, alpacas, and a llama
- Birds: Chickens, roosters, turkeys, ducks and geese
- Small animals: rabbits, two cats, and mice
Educating Through Empathy
Harmony Farm Sanctuary’s education mission centers around building compassion through experiences and thoughtful programming. Their Compassionate Curriculum, developed with educational and local organizations, teaches empathy and respect for all living beings.
Through school visits, youth programs, and sanctuary visits, visitors discover farm animals as individuals with feelings and stories. It’s a heart-centered approach to learning that empowers us to make kinder choices.
Ways to Support Harmony Farm Sanctuary
Harmony Farm is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and 100% volunteer-run. The kind people who care for the farm and animals are not paid workers. Instead, volunteers dedicate their time, expertise, and love to keep the day-to-day operations running smoothly.
Make a Difference
There are many meaningful ways you can support Harmony Farm and help them continue their mission.
- Stay on the farm: Book a “glamping” experience in the Harmony Farm Sanctuary tiny house. Catch the sunset of the Three Sisters mountains and wake up to peaceful sounds from the farm.
- Tour the farm: Every other Saturday guests can visit for a Sanctuary Guided Tour or a Private Guided Tour. The Founder Tour is coming soon!
- Volunteer: Apply to become a volunteer and join a team of dedicated individuals working hard to care for over 150 animals.
- Shop: Visit the Harmony’s online store to see their collection of available items featuring resident farm animals.
- Donate: Consider becoming a monthly or one-time donor. Donations directly impact the animals and go towards food, shelter, and medical needs.
Social media is a great tool to help spread awareness. It’s also a great way to share Harmony Farm’s mission with your family and friends. Stay connected with them on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
Lessons in Kindness
From meeting Chai the lamb to Serious, their resident turkey, Harmony’s Farm residents each taught us that care and kindness changes lives. Through this K12 Virtual Field Trip, students had the opportunity to meet friendly farm animals and connect through stories of strength and love.
Don’t Miss Future Adventures!
Are you ready for a K12 Virtual Field Trip? Join us for exciting virtual adventures to aquariums, science centers, animal sanctuaries and more! Any student in grades K-12 can join, whether enrolled in a K12-powered school or not. Visit our website www.enrichment.k12.com/virtual-field-trips to register for an upcoming session. Don’t wait, register for the next K12 Virtual Field Trip today.
