Special to IFN

As 2024 winds down, Rescue Ranch has several events planned for children and their families to learn about humane animal education:

Exceptional Thursdays kicks off November 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. This program is designed for families, kids and adults with exceptional needs. Participants can partake in crafts, animal meet and greets with the Ranch’s animal ambassadors, music and have an opportunity to make new friends.

Open to all ages, the event is $8 for kids and $10 for adults and pre-registration is suggested.

Outdoor Explorers Day – Holiday Ornament Edition, another event for the entire family, will take place on Wednesday, December 4. From 12- 3:30 p.m., families can make ornaments and various holiday crafts, explore the Ranch’s nature trails, the 10,000-square-foot inclusive playground and meet the barnyard animal ambassadors. There will also be meet and greets with some of the indoor animal ambassadors with photo opportunities.

Guests are encouraged to bring their lunch and stay for the afternoon. The cost of this event is $10 per person and pre-registration is suggested.

Winter Break Critter Camp – Wild Wonderland wraps up 2024. Designed for children from pre-K through fifth grade, this four-day camp runs December 23, 27, and 30-31. Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day, the camp will focus on animals living in the artic.

Critter Camps are designed to be fun, educational camp experiences for children who love animals. All camps involve daily interaction with animals, games, crafts and STEM activities. Campers will learn how to care for animals, provide enrichment, and how to promote humane animal care to others. In addition, campers will explore the Ranch’s walking trails and have access to the 10,000-square-foot inclusive Earnhardt Family Playground.

Parents can opt for a daily camp option for $50, or all four days for $175. Registration is required for Winter Break Critter Camp.

Registration

To pre-register for any of the Rescue Ranch upcoming events or Critter Camp, or for more information, visit rescueranch.com.

About Rescue Ranch

Rescue Ranch is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded by Krissie Newman. The 87-acre facility offers school, Scout and camp programs, birthday parties and private tours, which promote humane education through hands-on learning. Rescue Ranch is located in Statesville.