Karen Eastman-Everhart, Executive Director of Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc., discussed her work rescuing horses, donkeys, and mules at the facility located on Highway 57. The ranch has been open for twenty years and offers a safe refuge for abused, neglected, and abandoned horses, which are rehabilitated and adopted out to forever homes. Eastman-Everhart emphasizes that horses are not commodities to be discarded when they become ill or unwanted.
Rainbow Meadows assists law enforcement in dealing with broken laws and rehabilitates horses in days rather than years with the help of volunteers. Horses at the facility receive nutrition and training before being adopted out to ensure they receive proper care for the rest of their lives. The organization also offers a retirement program for horses in the Kansas Flint Hills and focuses on educating horse owners about responsible ownership and the effects of over-breeding.
Community engagement is a key aspect of Rainbow Meadows’ work, with children visiting to read to the horses and learn about volunteering. The organization collaborates with groups like the Manhattan Optimist Club and Jobs for Americas Graduates in Kansas to involve youth in serving the animals. Those interested in learning more can visit the Rainbow Meadows Facebook page, website, or contact the organization directly.
