Inspiring Kindness and Compassion towards Animals, Our Planet, and Each Other
Inspiring Kindness and Compassion towards Animals, Our Planet, and Each Other

Inside Scoop: Kiera in Tennessee

I have always had a deep love for animals-specifically companion animals, but as I got older and became more informed, I began looking into factory farming and organizations that were helping to end the suffering of those animals afflicted by it. I found The Gentle Barn on Facebook as a suggested page after following a few other sanctuaries. Once I found out they had a location in Knoxville, not just Tennessee, but my very own city, I knew I had to get involved. I visited the first time with the intention of volunteering but was doubly blessed on my visit by the amazing staff and volunteers and phenomenal stories of all the animals.

My first volunteer shift was 5 days after my initial visit. It was like a drug; I was hooked after the first 5 minutes. The Gentle Barn TN has not only given me purpose; it has given me friends-both human and animal. I was made to feel like a freak my whole life because I didn’t want to eat animals and because I placed animals on the same level as people. Animals were my lifeblood, and the Gentle Barn TN gave me a community that not only shared my same thoughts and feelings but also gave me an avenue to share my love with their beloved animals. In a very dark time in my life, this animal sanctuary gave me hope. It gave me a reason to get out of bed and put one step forward. I love the staff, volunteers, patrons, board members, visitors, and especially the animals that call this place home. I will forever be grateful to Ellie and Jay for their sacrifices made to make their dream come true, my dream come true, and I will always be grateful to Andrea for taking a chance on me and giving me purpose again. The Gentle Barn TN has changed my life, and I’m so blessed to be a part of it and its mission to change the lives of animals and the mindset of people.

- Kiera

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Upcoming Events

  • Chakra Meditation and Sound Healing (Winter 2024)

    March 2nd 2024 - The Gentle Barn California

    Clear, Balance and Align your 7 main Chakras through guided meditation, chanting, and Integrative sound bath. When your chakras are aligned, the energy moves through you more freely, and you can feel in harmony with all aspects of your physical, emotional and spiritual self.

  • Thermal Horizon - Windsong Retreat (Spring 2024)

    May 4th 2024 - The Gentle Barn California

    Let’s come together as a community as we support The Gentle Barn in their endeavor to enrich the lives of abused animals worldwide. Let’s bring our loving hearts, the spirit of opportunity and fill our cups emotionally, spiritually, and physically as we celebrate unity in community by helping these wonderful support animals.

  • Open Sunday in Missouri

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: Missouri.

  • Open Sunday in California

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: California.

  • Open Sunday in Tennessee

    We are excited to be open to the public again on Sunday, at The Gentle Barn: Tennessee.