About Sanctuary

Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Project

Our Mission

Our society goal is to rescue injured birds with the purpose of rehabilitating and releasing them back into their natural environment whenever possible. We are raising funds to purchase a  property in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, and establish a world-class Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

The sanctuary will provide professional medical care, rehabilitation services, education programs, environmental stewardship, and long-term sanctuary care for birds that cannot be released.

Phase I: Sanctuary Development

The sanctuary will include:

• A fully equipped medical clinic for examinations, treatments, and surgeries.

• Three recovery rooms, each accommodating up to 10 birds during rehabilitation.

• Seven quarantine sections for newly admitted birds.

• Large outdoor rehabilitation and flight areas capable of accommodating up to 100 birds.

• Fresh, frozen, and dry food storage facilities maintaining a minimum six-month emergency supply.

• Bio-organic gardens to support sanctuary operations and provide fresh produce.

• Advanced solar technology for heating and cooling to maximize energy efficiency and bird comfort.

• A Zero Waste Policy governing food management, purchasing, and daily operations.

Educational Workshop Gazebo

The sanctuary will feature a Workshop Gazebo dedicated to wildlife education and community engagement.

Programs will include:

• Wildlife documentaries and educational films.

• Guest speakers and conservation presentations.

• Workshops for children and adults.

• School visits for students in Grades 4–12.

• Art projects and discussions following educational events.

Permanent resident birds will be available for viewing. Rehabilitation birds will remain inaccessible to the public and monitored through cameras to prevent human imprinting and support successful release back to the wild.

To maintain a peaceful environment, the sanctuary will implement a Whisper Zone Policy, encouraging quiet outdoor behavior to support wildlife recovery, protect the natural environment, and respect neighboring properties.

Phase II: Emergency Preparedness and Transportation

To ensure the safety of all animals in our care, the society plans to purchase:

• One flat-deck truck.

• One large utility truck for daily operations and towing.

These vehicles will support sanctuary operations and provide emergency evacuation capability in the event of wildfire or other natural disasters.

Financial Sustainability

The sanctuary will develop multiple revenue streams to support long-term operations, including:

• Membership programs.

• Educational workshops and events.

• Wildlife documentary screenings.

• Fundraising dinners and outdoor events.

• Sales of beverages, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, and healthy desserts during events.

• An online gift shop featuring wildlife-themed products such as cards, keychains, apparel, and gifts.

• Partnerships with local artists whose products will be showcased and sold online.

Supporting Local Artists

We will collaborate with local and regional artists to promote wildlife conservation through art. Wildlife-themed artwork will be displayed and sold, with a portion of proceeds donated to the sanctuary.

Community Outreach

The society will actively participate in local events and community gatherings to:

• Promote wildlife conservation.

• Educate the public about bird rehabilitation.

• Increase awareness of sanctuary programs.

• Recruit volunteers, members, and supporters.

Lifetime Care Commitment

The sanctuary maintains a strict No Kill Policy.

Birds that cannot be safely returned to the wild due to permanent injury or disability will become permanent residents and receive lifelong care in spacious, protected environments.

The sanctuary will purchase specialized mobility and support equipment to ensure comfort and quality of life for birds with disabilities.

To protect all residents, the property will include:

• Secure 9-foot fencing.

• Controlled-access gates.

• Security and alarm systems.

• Predator-resistant enclosures.

Organic Gardens and Food Security

Bio-organic gardens will be developed to provide fresh food for sanctuary operations while promoting environmental sustainability and reducing operating costs.

Employment and Economic Benefits

Upon reaching full operational capacity, the sanctuary expects to create at least six full-time jobs for local residents.

Positions may include:

• Maintenance Technician

• Cleaning and Sanitation Staff

• Food Preparation Staff

• Marketing Coordinator

• Social Media Coordinator

• Garden Workers

Employees will receive:

• Minimum wages starting at $20 per hour.

• Medical and dental benefits after six months of employment.

• Annual wage increases based on performance and financial sustainability.

Membership Program

Memberships will help support sanctuary operations and provide benefits to supporters.

Annual Membership Fees:

• Individual Membership: $15

• Family Membership: $25

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Member benefits will include:

• Discounts on admission and events.

• Reduced pricing on movies and workshops.

• Discounts on art sold online.

• Early access to special events and volunteer opportunities.

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Bird Rescue and Intake Services

The sanctuary will provide:

• Injured bird pickup services within a 50-kilometre radius.

• A secure 24-hour bird drop-off station located at the main entrance.

• Heated shelter, lighting, water access, security cameras, and clear instructions for public use.

Veterinary Partnerships

The society will establish partnerships with at least two veterinary clinics to ensure rapid medical intervention and professional veterinary support whenever required.

Reforestation Program

Environmental restoration will begin during the first month of property ownership.

Our goal is to plant at least 140 native trees during the first year, including:

• Spruce

• Cedar

• Poplar

• Birch

• Larch

This initiative will restore native habitat, increase biodiversity, provide shade, and create a healthier environment for wildlife.

Donor Recognition Program

Donors contributing $10,000 or more will be recognized through exclusive invitations to two annual fundraising galas.

Benefits will include:

• Four complimentary tickets per gala.

• Seven-course catered dinners prepared by Canadian chefs.

• Silent auctions.

• Premium door prizes such as hotel stays, vacation packages, artwork, and other donated items.

Year-Round Accessibility

The sanctuary will maintain access roads throughout the winter season to ensure safe and reliable access for veterinary services, staff, volunteers, and emergency vehicles.

Our Vision

The  Bird Sanctuary of Shuswap will become a leading centre for bird rescue, rehabilitation, education, conservation, and community engagement in British Columbia. Through compassionate care, environmental stewardship, and public education, we will provide injured birds with a second chance while inspiring future generations to protect wildlife and natural habitats.