GFAS defines the recipient of this award as exhibiting “excellence in humane and responsible animal care; professionalism and ethics; organizational sustainability; public engagement; and contributions to, and leadership within, the sanctuary field.”

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What makes this recognition especially meaningful is the timeline in which it unfolded. In June 2025, Full Circle Farm Sanctuary became the first farmed animal sanctuary in Georgia to earn full GFAS accreditation. Just four months later, we were notified that, among all submissions in our category, FCFS was selected as the winner of the Outstanding Sanctuary Award.

 

This milestone made history—FCFS is the only sanctuary of any kind to receive both full GFAS accreditation and the Outstanding Sanctuary Award in the same year within the same year—an achievement reached in record time.

 

We were allotted only 350 words to summarize why FCFS deserved this honor. But our true case was not made in words—it was built over years. It is reflected in our daily work, the standards we uphold, and the foundation of excellence we have been quietly laying with unwavering commitment.

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While humility is a cornerstone of our approach, so too are intentionality, integrity, and dedication. Nothing we do is for appearances, and nothing happens by chance. Every aspect of FCFS—from care to education—is deliberate. Our impact is shaped not by what we say, but by how we show up: for the residents, for this mission, and for a kinder world.

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Even when no one is watching, we are guided by a deep sense of responsibility—steadfast in our commitment to move beyond the status quo and uplift the farmed animal community we serve. We may be a small team, but our heart and unique operating model allows us to create meaningful impact from modest means.

 

We don’t do this work alone. Your compassion is the reason lives are saved every day. Thank you for believing in us.