Help Build a Community Petting Zoo and Garden
Donation protected
Hey all, my name is Dennis Welch, owner and operator of Slate Hill Cattle Company, located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. I am a proud Navy veteran, and manage day to day operations of our successful cattle ranch where we raise our Pinzgauer breed of cattle to provide beef to the local community, as well as raising and selling cattle to other local ranchers and homesteaders. With the recent closing of Simmons Farm, we at Slate Hill would like to facilitate the property with the construction of a petting zoo and community garden on the 150+ acres of Cloverbud Ranch that we currently lease from a very generous landowner who fully supports this vision.
Slate Hill Cattle Company Petting Zoo and Community Garden Fundraiser
Slate Hill Cattle Company is excited to launch a GoFundMe campaign to establish a petting zoo and community garden, promoting community engagement, education, and sustainability.
About the Project
The petting zoo and community garden will be built on a dedicated 6-acre portion of the farm, similar to the previous to the former Simmons Farm in Middletown, Rhode Island, which had been successfully operating for years. The project aims to create a welcoming space for locals to interact with animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and grow their own fruits and vegetables. Plan is to have various species of animals for petting, feeding and bonding.
In addition to the petting zoo and community garden, we would like to start regular farm tours, cookouts and other community events.
Goals and Objectives
The primary objectives of this project are to:
Create a petting zoo featuring friendly farm animals, providing an educational and entertaining experience for children and adults alike
Establish a community garden, where locals can grow their own produce and learn about sustainable gardening practices
Foster community engagement through workshops, events, and volunteer opportunities. We envision craft nights, educational courses and classes, gardening tutorials, yoga classes, cookouts, food trucks, ice cream socials, and so much more!
Similar initiatives have been successful in other locations on Aquidneck Island and throughout the state
How Your Donation Will Be Used
Your contribution will be used to:
- Purchase and care for animals for the petting zoo.
- Build proper fencing and containment for both the animals as well as the garden plants and produce.
- Develop the community garden infrastructure, including raised beds, irrigation systems, and tools.
- Organize workshops and events to promote community engagement and education.
- Establish and fund the appropriate licensing and permissions from the town and state.
- Pay staff and employee the youth of Aquidneck Island.
Benefits of the Project
The Slate Hill Cattle Company Petting Zoo and Community Garden will:
- Provide an educational resource for local schools and families
- Promote sustainability and environmental awareness
- Foster community cohesion through shared activities and events
**We aim to raise $25,000 to bring this project to life, with additional funding through grants and other financial backings.
Your donation will help us create a vibrant community hub that benefits both people and animals.
Every contribution counts, whether it's $5 or $500. Your support will help us achieve our goal and make a positive impact on our community.
Organizer
Dennis Welch
Organizer
Portsmouth, RI