Humane Education

Therapeutic Programs

Humane Education

Leilani Farm Sanctuary hosts humane education programs, school field trips, elder activities, therapeutic animal encounters for special-needs visitors and at-risk youth, as well as farm tours for the general public. Our programs provide the community with a hands-on experience that is thought-provoking and stimulates social and emotional growth.

Their Stories Are Our Stories

Most of the animals at Leilani Farm Sanctuary were orphaned, neglected, or abused. Through interaction with these animals, children from troubled homes learn forgiveness, courage, strength, leadership skills, trust, empathy, and kindness. The animals become role models, helping children learn to forgive, overcome their pasts, and reach toward a hopeful future.

When we relay the animals’ stories to children with violent upbringings, it helps them relate to their own pain in a healthier way. (Often, when children are abused they then abuse others.) By learning empathy and respect for all life, children can break the cycle of violence and become protectors rather than abusers. Animals, with their unconditional love, can often reach youngsters more deeply and effectively than humans can.

On October 27, 2023, the State of Hawaii Judiciary issued a Certificate of Appreciation to Leilani Farm Sanctuary, noting “you have opened your heart and your hands to help us reach out the community.”

Sponsor a Group of Children

Your $400 donation will sponsor a group of special-needs children’s visit to Leilani Farm Sanctuary. A donation of $4,000 funds their participation in our ten-month animal-assisted therapy and humane education program. Please help these children, who otherwise could not afford to come.

Sponsor Keiki Group

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Melani Ellis

Humane Educator and Tour Guide

Melani Ellis has been a valuable part of the Leilani team for five years. Our guests always enjoy the tours she leads, thanking her for being so kind and knowledgeable.

Melani is also a caregiver with The Wisdom Center for Autism, which provides care for children and adults with autism. She’s now working on an animal program for people with autism and other special needs.

A 26-year Maui resident, Melani runs a small animal sanctuary in Huelo, Ohana Animal Sanctuary and founded the nonprofit organization, Friends of All Beings, which provides advocacy, rescue, and sanctuary for vulnerable animals in need.

Kathryn Rone, M.A.

Leilani Educator and Volunteer Coordinator

Kathryn Rone has an M.A. in Counseling Psychology and teaches meditation and psychology for the University of Hawaii, Manoa, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

“Visitors to the Sanctuary come from all over the world. They are on vacation and have chosen to spend their time with animals at a sanctuary. This is an opportunity to motivate them to care for animals, consider their actions, and to get involved where they live. On the tours we speak of these choices.”