Operation Angels

Oh no, we will own all of the property. I own half, and I will fundraise for the other half. I just mean the funds raised will not be "mine". They will be an investment in the property and used purchase the farm, but if the farm ever sells that amount plus any appreciation will be donated to appropriate causes, it will not go in my pocket. 

It's a bit more complicated than that, but I hear what you're saying. When we moved, we also sold our house and invested our life savings into the farm. Some of the fundraiser went to the purchase of the farm, but the majority went to start-up costs for the sanctuary. Legal fees for charitable status, repairs, fencing, feed, equipment, tools, etc. for the first year of operations until we began regular fundraising with charitable status. 

How the new farm was purchased or who will contribute what isn't information I have access to so I can't elaborate on that. 

But, in this case, l'm trying to see it as money from the public being held as equity, and a 50% stake in the property, to allow a revenue-generating organization to put money into protecting animals. If the farm ever sells again that million dollars will have appreciated along with the farm and also become a donation to help animals. I hope that makes sense. 

Absolutely, and I have asked for a comprehensive list of what is being removed and what will stay. It will definitely impact the price if there are fences and barns being removed. 

This is a question I’m still discussing with the lawyers. I want it to be a non-profit, but the lawyers will advise exactly how to best structure it to satisfy the tax laws and make sure everything is done correctly. 

The big draw will be the activities, like the lavender field, sunflowers garden, guest accommodations, and special events, all in a very scenic location. Tours alone won't raise the money I think we need to raise in order to be effective and have a meaningful impact on the sanctuaries and rescues we're able to support. That said, I will absolutely have rescue animals of my own on the farm, and share their stories with our guests. They'll be my responsibility, though, so they don't become a financial liability for the organization.  

Absolutely. I figure two of the existing small barns could be converted, and three additional spaces would be yurts for that glamping experience. They're economical to purchase, and very popular among visitors. I love them. 

The agri-tourism sector is worth tens of billions of dollars a year, $33.8 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to generate $111.1 billion by 2032. The property focus will be tapping into that market by providing unique experiences for guests and diverting the profits tc animal organizations. That's the difference between what I'm proposing and the existing businesses in the sector. 

Another really good question. I have always believed the only reason the Esther community has accomplished what it has was because of strength in numbers. There are so many incredibly capable and dedicated people involved that strength in numbers will play a major role in allowing me to be where I need to be, while the support network around me keeps me on track and helps out in the areas I’m not able to. Divide and conquer has always been the approach, and this is no different 

If we raise the one million dollars that will pay off the entirety of the “other half” of the farm. The current mortgage is approximately 550k, so I would be left responsible for a mortgage of approximately 250-275k that I will pay myself using my income from The Steve Store, speaking engagements, and my social media pages. I also plan to rent out the trailer to a long-term tenant to help provide some additional financial security for the first year or so. I expect that could provide monthly cushion of $1500-$1700/month to assist with the mortgage payments while I get my feet on the ground. 

At some point the farm will require a general manager and hospitality/event manager. If I'm able I would take on the farm manager position, but I can't stretch myself too thin and will happily volunteer my time if hiring somebody else makes more sense for the growth and prosperity of the farm. I'd like to pretend I can account for every possible eventuality, but I know the plan will need to be fluid and evolve along with the project so we can make decisions based on the best interest of the long-term goals and objectives when it comes to staffing. 

The fundraiser will be primarily run via Indigogo or a similar fundraising platform. For folks who prefer to contribute directly can contact me to discuss and arrange alternative options.

I do not believe this new project will be a charity, but I am discussing every option with my lawyers to figure out the most suitable legal structure for the organization. 

As for rent. No, the organization will not pay rent. I will be living on the farm and retain a 50% financial interest in the property. I consider the other 50% interest to belong to the supporters who contribute to helping me secure the farm. That money will never be mine, but will be held and protected as equity in the property. 

In the event the farm ever sells that 50% interest will be donated to animal sanctuaries and rescue organizations, or the entire property will be willed to a suitable organization to continue operations in perpetuity upon my passing. 

The mortgage would be my personal responsibility.