01/07/2026
2025 marks ten years that Peter and I have volunteered all our time to Lighthouse. When we first moved here, we thought it would be temporary — maybe a year — and that we’d be supported by a large volunteer team caring for what was then just over 200 animals.
That isn’t how it unfolded. Before long, it was mostly the two of us, with a few volunteers helping when they could, doing our best to balance the immense needs of the sanctuary alongside our own jobs, responsibilities, and lives.
And still, I am incredibly proud. In these ten years, we’ve given a forever home to hundreds of animals, built safe and warm shelters, and grown a compassionate online community that shows up when the animals need it most. Lighthouse exists solely because of our perseverance and commitment to the animals.
But ten years of carrying so much has taken its toll. Burnout isn’t something we can push through anymore, it’s something we have to listen to. And that means Lighthouse needs new people with fresh energy, new ideas, and shared responsibility to help it thrive long into the future.
Lighthouse has never belonged to Peter and me or anyone else. It belongs to the animals. As long as there are people who care deeply enough, this land will always be a sanctuary for them.
My dream has always been for the animals to be surrounded by a strong, on-the-ground community. It hasn’t fully come together yet but I believe it still can. It has to.
If you feel called to make a real difference and have the time, care, and commitment to give, we’d love to hear from you. We’re looking for new board members, a volunteer coordinator, and eventually onsite volunteer caretakers.
Lighthouse was never meant to be carried by just two people. It was always meant to be held by a community. ❤️