About Rooterville Animal Sanctuary: Our Mission, Our Story
Welcome to Rooterville Animal Sanctuary. More than just a non-profit organization, we are a passionate community dedicated to transforming the lives of abused, neglected, and desperate farm animals. Located on 20-30 serene acres near Melrose, Florida, Rooterville is a permanent haven where over 100 residents—from pigs and cows to chickens and goats—find the love, care, and freedom they deserve. We invite you to explore the heart behind our sanctuary, understand our guiding principles, and discover the profound impact we make, one rescued life at a time.
Our Mission & Vision: Why We Exist
At Rooterville, our existence is driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare and a vision for a kinder world.
Our Mission:
To rescue and provide a permanent, loving home for farm animals in need, while also educating the public and inspiring compassionate living.
Our Vision:
A world free from cruelty, where kindness and compassion guide our choices toward each other, animals, and the planet.
Our Philosophy:
We believe in encouraging visitors and supporters to adopt compassionate, plant-based lifestyles. This isn't just about animal welfare; it's about fostering environmental health and personal well-being. Education is a cornerstone of our philosophy, delivered through hands-on experiences designed to inspire empathy and critical thinking about animals, our food choices, and global sustainability. We focus on farm animals because they are among the most exploited creatures, and their stories often go unheard. Here, their voices are amplified, and their individual worth is celebrated.
The Rooterville Story: From Idea to Sanctuary
The journey of Rooterville Animal Sanctuary began in 2004 with the compassionate heart of our founder, Elaine West. What started with a focus on providing a safe home for unwanted pot-bellied pigs soon blossomed into a much larger mission. Elaine saw the immense need for a sanctuary that could offer refuge to all types of farm animals facing abuse, neglect, and despair.

From those early, challenging days, Rooterville has grown steadily, fueled by dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of our community. Each expansion of our acreage, every new barn built, and every new life welcomed, marks a significant milestone in our history. Rooterville is not just a place; it's the culmination of a deeply personal commitment to creating a world where every animal can live free from fear and pain. It's a testament to what a compassionate vision can achieve.
Every decision and every action at Rooterville Animal Sanctuary is rooted in a set of core values that define who we are and how we operate:
- Compassion: At the heart of everything we do is a profound empathy for all living beings, driving us to provide the highest standard of care and respect.
- Education: We believe in empowering people with knowledge, inspiring them to make informed and kinder choices for animals and the planet.
- Sustainability: We strive to operate in an environmentally conscious way, understanding that the health of our planet is intrinsically linked to the well-being of its inhabitants.
- Responsible Care: We are committed to providing exceptional, lifelong care for every animal in our charge, ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met.
- Transparency: We operate with openness and integrity, ensuring our supporters understand how their contributions directly impact the lives of our rescued residents.
- Community: We foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone—visitors, volunteers, and supporters—feels valued and part of our shared mission.
Rooterville's success is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the individuals who pour their hearts into our mission every single day. From our visionary founder to our compassionate caregivers and strategic board members, each person plays a vital role in creating this haven.
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The true measure of Rooterville's work lies in the transformed lives of our animals and the growing community of compassionate individuals we inspire.
- Over 100 Rescued Lives: Each year, we provide sanctuary to dozens of animals who would otherwise face dire circumstances, offering them a second chance at a life of peace and dignity.
- Individual Success Stories: Discover the incredible journeys of our animals – from their rescue to their thriving lives at Rooterville. Their resilience is our greatest reward.
- Community & Education Outreach: Through our tours, educational programs, and public events, we connect with thousands of visitors annually, spreading awareness about animal welfare and inspiring kind choices.
- A Model of Ethical Care: We strive to set a standard for compassionate animal husbandry, demonstrating that farm animals can live long, joyful lives free from exploitation.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, Rooterville remains committed to expanding our reach, enhancing our facilities, and deepening our impact. Our aspirations include reaching more animals in need, inspiring even wider audiences through innovative educational programs, and continuing to serve as a beacon of compassion for farm animals and the planet. Your support helps us build this future.
