Non-profit Spotlight: Sage Mountain

"Morgan" getting some love from Lauren. Photo: TownLift

PARK CITY, Utah — Sage Mountain animal rescue and sanctuary is participating in Live PC Give PC on Friday, November 5^th.

Lauren Lockey and Dave Swartz are co-founders of Sage Mountain. Lauren describes the sanctuary’s mission, “We are a 501(c3) non-profit organization that provides educational programming, advocacy, and a sanctuary for rescued farm animals. We aim to inspire the community to reduce, if not eliminate, animal-based foods from their diet. We offer tours of the sanctuary, volunteer opportunities, yoga, sponsorship programs, and events with the effort to build a compassionate community while in the presence of our animal ambassadors.”

The most rewarding part of running Sage Mountain for Lauren is “Witnessing people connect to our animal residents. Most people have never come into contact with a pig, cow, or turkey, so when they do, their face lights up with joy. When people hear their stories, it causes them to re-evaluate their choices and feel empowered to make more compassionate ones. Animals have a sweet way of inspiring us to open our hearts, raise our collective consciousness, and become better stewards of the world around us.

Lauren illustrates how Sage Mountain collaborates with other rescue groups and how animals lives are changed once they arrive at Sage Mountain.

“If it weren’t for the incredible effort put forth by individuals and other rescue organizations, none of our residents would be living anymore. Every individual was seen as a product for profit while being raised in the food industry. Once they arrive, they begin to gain trust in humans and realize they are safe to be themselves. Morgan can be a pig, Bradley can be a steer, and Sammie can be a sheep. They form friendships and receive tons of love, belly rubs, and treats from all who meet them,” she says.

Lauren is adamant that the Park City community makes Sage Mountain possible. “Over the years, Sage Mountain has gained a lot of support from the Park City community through not only Live PC Give PC, but also fundraisers we have hosted at the sanctuary such as our Plant-Based Palooza, Wine Down Yoga, private Birthday Parties, and school groups.  We are incredibly grateful for the Park City community, for we would not be where we are without it!” she exclaims.