Client Spotlight
Noah’s Ark
Noah’s Ark is not your average animal rehab center. In addition to housing over 1,300 animals, from wildlife and domestic to exotic species, the Locust Grove, Georgia-based 501(c)(3) non-profit, shares its 250-acre farm with the Children’s Care Home.
The Children’s Care Home is a separate 501(c)(3) that provides care for up to 24 children of all ages. And despite the unusual combination, the two organizations are a perfect fit for one another.
Many of the children at the Children’s Care Home have been abused or abandoned and have a hard time relating to people. Participating in “pet therapy” and helping nurture and rehabilitate the animals from Noah’s Ark gives them a way to open up emotionally. The animals, in turn, receive the care and affection they need to prepare them to eventually return to their natural habitat.
One such animal was a zebra named Evidence.
In April of 2008, the baby zebra was found grazing along a busy stretch of interstate less than ten miles from Noah’s Ark. Exactly where he came from remains a mystery, but it is believed that he fell from a passing truck. Officers at the scene kept referring to the zebra as “evidence,” and the name stuck.
Unfortunately, Evidence had been struck by another vehicle and sustained life-threatening injuries. Thankfully, Noah’s Ark was able to rescue him and transport him to Auburn University where he received the life-saving medical attention he needed.
Evidence made his home at Noah’s Ark where his loving nature made him a favorite among the children and staff. His name, however, took on a deeper meaning — he became a symbol for the organization, which viewed him as evidence of the generosity of donors who contributed funds for his treatment and evidence of the need for organizations like Noah’s Ark.
Sadly, after many years of providing help and companionship to the children of the Children’s Care Home, Evidence died in December of 2010 — but his legacy continues to live on through the ongoing mission of Noah’s Ark.
Noah’s Ark is located in Locust Grove, Georgia, about 50 miles south of Atlanta. It was founded in 1962 and has an operating budget of $1.5 million per year. If you plan to be in the area, stop by and visit Evidence at Noah’s Ark. The animal habitat is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 3:00pm EST (weather permitting).
Call 770-957-0888 for further information, directions or to schedule a group tour, or visit online at www.noahs-ark.org or www.facebook.com/pages/Noahs-Ark-Club-House/314809585087