LEAP: Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet
A Compassionate Alternative to Traditional Animal Agriculture Programs
Only Sunshine Sanctuary is excited to announce we are participating in the brand new LEAP program this 2023-2024 school year!
Founded by three non-profit sanctuaries in Northern California, LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet) is the first-of-its-kind humane education program to reach high school students as a compassionate alternative to traditional agricultural programs like 4H and FFA. Providing in-depth monthly curriculum, high-impact leadership training, and hands-on workshops in both sanctuaries and urban settings, LEAP will prepare the next generation of leaders to transform our food systems, advocate for animal welfare and human rights, tackle the challenges of food deserts and diet-related diseases, and lead the way in climate solutions, sustainability, and wildlife conservation. LEAP empowers young people, teaching them that empathy for others is a strength, not a weakness. With humanity at a major crossroads, there’s no better time for our youth to leap forward into a more compassionate and forward-thinking society.
Why consider LEAP
for your student?
With a diverse array of learning methods–such as construction projects, basic veterinary care, and public outreach–students will become adept at:
public interface & networking
group leadership & personal leadership: leading by example, and leading a life aligned with their ethics
problem solving
practical hands-on skills, whether on the ranch or in the office
social-emotional learning and empathy
Commitment to the animal sanctuary residents, rain or shine, teaches patience, dependability, and resilience.
Students will be rewarded with a certificate of completion, letters of recommendation, and be connected with a vast network of nonprofits and mentors.
Students also have the opportunity to apply for competitive scholarships of $500 or $1000 each year they participate in LEAP to be used for college or career training.
TIMELINE 2023-2024
August 1, 2023: Application submissions begin
❌ CANCELLED August 19, 2023: LEAP Q&A Open House @ Only Sunshine Sanctuary
August 24, 2023: LEAP Q&A Open House (Virtual); 7 PM - 8PM
September 1, 2023: Application deadline at midnight
September 8, 2023 – May 26, 2024: Duration of LEAP Program
Meetings are the 3rd Sunday of each month, 11am-3pm. (Except October will be Oct 29th)
