Our Key Humans

Keeping the donkeys healthy and safe requires a deep commitment from the key people involved in their care.  This includes the Founders of the Refuge, Our Staff and Management, Our Volunteers, Our Board of Directors and of course, our financial supporters who make the operation of this Refuge possible.

Our Founders

Shirley Mainprize and Robert Miller began their journey with donkeys when they purchased little Maximo and received his mother Maria as a gift.  Their commitment to the rescue and care of donkeys has never wavered as they lead by example. Although Shirley passed away in early 2025, her legacy lives on.  Rob continues to provide a safe and comfortable home for the donkeys, and along with staff, board members and volunteers, the Refuge continues to take on donkeys & mules who are in need.  Through Rob’s commitment to behavioral re-training, farm and staff management, public relations, liaison with the community at large and donkey owners in particular, he continues to build the outreach of the Refuge for the benefit of all Donkeys & Mules.  Shirley’s wish was to help educate and foster wider understanding to ensure better lives for Donkeys and Mules, who are so often misunderstood. The Refuge continues Shirley’s legacy of care & comfort for Donkeys and Mules in need through education of the public regarding donkey welfare during our visitor season, through our newsletters, and by providing educational materials, and links to existing resources for wide distribution.

Our Amazing Staff

Our team of strong, loyal and dedicated barn & office staff make sure that our donkeys & mules have a safe and healthy environment.