Animal Refuge Kingdom

HISTORY

The Animal Refuge Kingdom was started by Steve Sorensen purchasing 19 acres in 1996 and another 7 acres in 2000. It was founded out of his love for animals and children. He began by taking in rescued animals in 1997. Since 2002 the facilities at The ARK have allowed for visitation by special needs children and adults. Since that time The ARK has hosted groups of special needs children from local school districts, children’s hospitals, church youth groups and groups of elderly residents from assisted living centers.

In 2005 The ARK was granted its non-profit 501C3 organization status. This has helped a great deal in trying to raise private donations to help support The ARK. There are no paid employees here so every dollar, 100% of all donations, goes directly to the feed & care of our animals and helping children come to visit The ARK.

STEVE SORENSEN, Director

I’ve always had a big soft spot for animals, but an even bigger place for animals no one wanted or worse yet, one’s that have been abused. Animals have always been a part of my life and I have found them to be more trusting and honest than any human I’ve ever met. They have no hidden agendas. It is a sheer joy to feed, care and live with the animals here.

I saw first hand the effect animals can have on sick children with the death of my little sister in 1967. This I am sure is what drove me to open The ARK to other children with special needs. I simply pray this place will always be here long after I leave.