I, like many others, have longed for and dreamed of animal liberation. I have been vegetarian for over a decade now and as of the last couple of years, have committed to being vegan. But I have always wanted to do more. I wanted to take it a step further and personally help in saving an animals's life. I first heard about The Gentle Barn a few years back from a friend of mine, Sabrina. She volunteered on Sunday's and I had plans to join her but randomly and abruptly moved away. When I moved back to Southern California this past spring, I was very excited that I would finally have a chance to volunteer. Since my birthday fell on a Sunday this past May, my parents joined me for a beautiful day of hugging cows and rubbing pig bellies. Right after that, I finally had a chance to read Ellie's book, "My Gentle Barn". I finished it in 48 hours and went through so many emotions while reading Ellie's story. I laughed, I cried, I even wanted to yell at her at moments when I thought she might give up. I was so incredibly thrilled to have a chance to be apart of this beautiful sanctuary that her and Jay have created. Soon after, I started volunteering in the office once a week. I knew there were a lot of people who loved everything happening at The Gentle Barn but I didn't realize just how much love and support they actually received daily. From kind words posted on social media to all the donations from so many generous people. The community that The Gentle Barn and many other organizations have started is inspiring and I am so honored to be apart of it. My dream as a child of having my own animal sanctuary feels much more possible because of Ellie and Jay, and all the beautiful people standing behind them.

Krista