Our Story

The Beginning of Sanctuary Hill: A Dream Rooted in Compassion

A group dedicated to the care and well-being of animals stood at a crossroad in April 2026 that would shape the future of countless animals. This group of staffers had spent a great period caring for animals at Barn Hill Preserve and later Magnolia Wilds.

The park’s founder expressed interest in stepping away from Magnolia Wilds and the employees made a bold and determined proposal: they would form a non-profit organization to purchase the land, accept the donation of the animal residents, and transition the facility to an animal sanctuary.

Sanctuary Hill was born from a bond with the animals that ran deeper than a job description – it was a calling!

The shared dream was to create a nonprofit animal sanctuary and rehabilitation center dedicated to native wildlife and small exotic animals. The founders wanted to establish a place where injured creatures could heal, surrendered animals could find safety, and education and conservation could flourish.

Big dreams need a community of support. The soon-to-be operation reached out to people who believed in their mission, gathering a board of leaders whose expertise would guide the sanctuary’s future. The board was a powerful blend of knowledge, integrity, and heart:

·      Dr. Bridget Soileau, DVM

·      Dr. David Love, DVM

·      Sam D’Aquilla, District Attorney of East and West Feliciana Parishes

·      Jared Crawford, owner of a roofing and construction company

·      Sarah Smith, teacher from Zachary, Louisiana

This board was formed to govern Sanctuary Hill and support the staff as they built and developed this organization.

Sanctuary Hill transformed from a dream into a living, breathing refuge. A place where compassion guides decisions and people who are determined to service and protect a variety of animal species.

Sanctuary Hill stands today as a testament to what can happen when passion meets perseverance and people believe in something bigger than themselves.  The future is bright for the Sanctuary Hill, the animal residents, and the community it serves.