"We promote
healthy environments in which people and animals interact and connect through
applied, environmental, and educational programs to cultivate mental and
physical health."
Denkai Animal Sanctuary is committed to the philosophy that compassion and
respect for our youth is directly linked to the kindness given to society and
our animals in
creating a peaceful and respectful world for us all.
The Sanctuary, located near Grover, Colorado surrounded by the beautiful and
serene Pawnee National Grasslands, is home to more than 100 horses, dogs, cats
and other animals on any given day who come from shelters, rescue groups and
owners no longer able to care for their pets from around the United States.The Sanctuary has quickly become a destination for several hundred
visitors and volunteers each year including local youth at risk who have found
sanctuary themselves in the kindness offered to them.
Denkai Animal Sanctuary is unique in that it aims to
provide a combination of services for animals in need, at-risk youth, and
environmental awareness.This
will be accomplished through hands on educational opportunities.
History:
Founded in May of 2004 by Floss Blackburn, Denkai Animal Sanctuary began
with 25 animals on 15 acres with minimal facilities and a few volunteers.
There were no large benefactors that started this organization, it has
grown over the last three years through very hard work and hands on daily
chores, sometimes lasting late into the evening. Thanks to a very
dedicated group of volunteers who stayed with us through a very rough
beginning, our sanctuary is now situated on 640 acres and includes
numerous outbuildings, several acres of pasture, and we are caring for
more than 100 animals. Since inception, volunteers have logged more
than 200,000 hours helping the animals and children at Denkai. Denkai has
actively operated using sustainable energies, such as wind and solar.
Denkai has doubled its fundraising income in the past year, largely
through our website. Individuals who have heard about our organization can
log onto our website to learn more about our efforts, and can easily make
monetary donations through Network for Good.
At the sanctuary:
The majority of the animals who find a safe haven at Denkai have special
physical or behavioral needs, some are deaf and blind, some have been
partially paralyzed or crippled due to human cruelty and neglect.
Our expert staff of veterinarians, trainers and
caregivers offer strive to offer all that they can give to these animals
in need of recovery. Most of these special animals are ready to go to good
new homes after just a few weeks of care. Others, who are older or sicker,
or who have suffered extra trauma, find a home and haven at the sanctuary,
and are given loving care for the rest of their lives.
Many youth at risk have visited Denkai, most with emotional issues and
trauma very similar to that suffered by our very special animals.
Denkai strives to work hand in hand with youth homes offering off-site
programs that foster confidence and a sense of purpose through hands
on activities at the Sanctuary helping to bring about an end to the cycle
of abuse and strengthen the human animal bond.
Around the nation:
Denkai works with humane groups, individuals and entire communities in helping
to provide rescue and placement along with Sanctuary for domestic animals in
need.
Animal rescue and disaster response:
Here in the
United States
, Denkai has worked together with local humane groups to rescue victims of
Hurricane Katrina, those of the San Diego Wildfires, and a group of Miracle
Horses saved when the last slaughter plant in the
US
was shut down.Denkai is fortunate
in have experienced and caring people, giving our Sanctuary and staff the
ability to help in times of need.
Public education:
Denkai has worked with many local school groups,
library, and individuals through presentations, educational programs, and talks
to promote humane treatment of animals and youth.
Support:
The work of Denkai is supported entirely by the
donations from individuals and foundations. Through the generous hearts and
hands of people like you, we can ensure that animals who come into the care of
Denkai will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid or in pain. We invite you
to make a forever difference in the lives of these animals we care for through
joining us as a sponsor today!
Denkai Animal Sanctuary has
been organized to operate exclusively for charitable, scientific,
prevention of cruelty to animals, and educational purposes within
the meaning of section 501
(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code.
This Sanctuary provides adoption
services and a permanent home for close to 90 animals including
horses, llamas, pot bellied pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys,
dogs and even a few cats.
We operate through kind
volunteers, and in turn give them the opportunity to foster
compassion for these abused and neglected animals by helping with
their maintenance and rehabilitation. We also work with several
local educational establishments and have worked with mentally and
physically challenged adults and kids. We believe in helping these
animals and giving back to the community.
