The Cause
Burros in the Pines is a benefit for Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
About Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary
Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Benson, Arizona, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, rehoming, and sanctuary of abused, neglected, or surrendered donkeys. Founded in 1998 by John and Tish Hiestand, the facility operates alongside Director Suzanne Velasquez. Together, they provide a safe, permanent haven for donkeys that are elderly, medically fragile, or psychologically traumatized from past abuse, while preparing adoptable donkeys for qualified homes. Officially recognized by the Arizona Department of Agriculture, it operates as a certified equine rescue facility.
Learn more about the sanctuary, book a tour, or donate directly at foreverhomedonkeyrescue.com.
Every registration, sponsorship, and donation from this race supports that work.
Mission & facility
Focus
Providing permanent sanctuary to at-risk donkeys that have run out of options.
Capacity
The 30-acre ranch houses approximately 29 donkeys and one mini-mule, ranging from 1 month to 39 years old.
Standards
Strict veterinary oversight and adherence to ethical guidelines for housing and rehabilitation.
Visiting the sanctuary
Because the rescue is situated on the founders' private residential property, it does not operate like a public park or petting zoo.
- Appointments required. You must book a tour in advance through the Forever Home Donkey Rescue website.
- Summer hours. Due to extreme afternoon desert temperatures, public tours are exclusively offered at 9:00 AM.
- Annual closure. The facility is entirely closed for tours during August to facilitate crucial facility maintenance and volunteer breaks.
- Cost. Guided educational tours are free, though visitors are strongly encouraged to leave a donation to support feed and veterinary care.
Ways to support
💵 Monetary donations
Tax-deductible funds directly cover medical building upkeep, dental floating, and daily nutrition needs.
🎁 Wishlist items
The organization maintains an active registry of supplies via its Amazon Wishlist.
🙌 Volunteering
Local volunteers assist on-site with ranch upkeep and animal socialization.
How the race helps
Proceeds from the inaugural running go to the sanctuary. Sponsorship packages that benefit the rescue directly are detailed on the Sponsors page.