After becoming vegan in 2011, Rick and Carolyn Solan began regularly donating to and volunteering at farm sanctuaries. Rick was later appointed as Vice President of the board at Full Circle Farm Sanctuary in Warm Springs, Georgia. Following his time of service, Rick felt compelled to start a sanctuary in his home state of North Carolina. It was Carolyn who found the diamond in the rough that was destined to become Changing Hearts Farm—an 18-acre tract of land about 40 miles west of Charlotte, in Shelby, N.C. This particular property had been in the same family for over 100 years when it came to market. At one time, it was home to a grove of pecan trees. The trees were still standing yet suffering from many years of neglect. Those years of neglect were evident throughout the property, which was severely overgrown and infested with weeds, poison ivy, and brush. Upon acquiring the land in 2017, Rick and Carolyn had it cleared and amended in every way to support the buildout of the sanctuary and to restore the pecan trees to production. They envision one day using the profits from the ”Broad River Pecan Company” to help fund the sanctuary. Rick and Carolyn have transformed this magical acreage into a wonderland for the animals. Our residents benefit from having the ultimate in safety and security, allowing them to live joyfully and unencumbered. Without exception, they are devoted to the lucky few who live on these sacred grounds. But this is only the beginning of our work. The Changing Hearts Farm mission goes beyond providing sanctuary, as we lend our voices to raise awareness on behalf of the plight of animals everywhere.
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