Right beyond the fence line of Misfits of Oz Farm Sanctuary sits 160 acres of open land.

For the last year and a half, we’ve looked across that property and imagined what it could become- wide pastures for rescued pigs, large ponds for wallowing, tall trees for shady naps, and room for our sanctuary to grow so we never have to move again.

Land like this rarely becomes available directly next to an established sanctuary. When opportunities like this appear, they are often once-in-a-generation, and once it is sold, the opportunity is gone forever. The surrounding properties are family legacy land that will not come up for sale. This truly is our ONE opportunity to secure the future of Misfits of Oz in this location.

If we can secure this land, it could become permanent sanctuary space where rescued animals are safe and cared for for generations to come. Instead of becoming hunting property or livestock land, it could become something different- a place where compassion grows and animals are given the second chance they deserve.

Securing this land allows Misfits of Oz to grow in ways that make the sanctuary stronger for the long term- creating space for volunteers, educational visits, community events, sanctuary stays, medical space expansion, and future infrastructure that supports the animals in our care.

Every donation helps us move one step closer to turning the land beyond our fence into sanctuary.

Our First Milestone

The land beyond our fence is currently listed for $600,000. While that number may feel daunting, we believe meaningful change happens step by step, acre by acre.

Our first fundraising milestone is $75,000- a starting point that allows us to begin building momentum and demonstrating strong community support for the larger goal of securing the entire property.

As each milestone is reached, we will update the campaign and continue working toward the ultimate goal of protecting all 160 acres.

If we are fortunate enough to encounter supporters who wish to make larger contributions toward protecting the land, those gifts would bring us significantly closer to making this dream a reality.

Together, we believe this community can accomplish something extraordinary.

Misfits of Oz is a 501(C)3 non-profit, so all of your donations not only go towards securing the future of Misfits but are also tax deductible.

EIN 87-2691635

If you believe in the future of Misfits of Oz, we invite you to help protect the land beyond our fence.

Vegas, (shown sharing his love with Shanda) a deeply loved resident whose story reminds us why proximity to veterinary care matters so much.

Why this land specifically?

Veterinary access is not just a convenience for a sanctuary like ours- it can mean the difference between life and death.

Several years ago, one of our pigs named Vegas needed urgent medical care that wasn’t available locally. We began the long drive to get him the help he needed, traveling across state lines to reach a veterinarian equipped to treat him.

On that journey, our transport vehicle was struck in a serious accident. The van was totaled, my back was permanently injured, and despite everything we did to reach the care he needed, Vegas passed shortly after.

Losing him was devastating. But it also reinforced something we can never ignore- when animals need help, distance matters.

Being located near trusted veterinary professionals allows us to respond quickly when emergencies arise and ensures our residents receive the care they deserve. Securing the land next door allows us to grow while keeping that critical lifeline in place. We now have the incredible advantage of being less than 30 minutes from the OSU Veterinary Hospital, and our proximity has also opened the door to have one of the incredible university doctors be able to come on site weekly for routine care and emergencies.

Dr. Jimenez and the veterinary students performing on site routine care for Bess.

"There’s no place like home."
This land already feels like home- a place we’ve spent the last year building, caring for, and growing. Securing the land beyond our fence is the next step toward making that home permanent for the animals who depend on us.

Our Vision:

When we look across this land, we don’t just see acres- we see possibility.

We see rescued pigs exploring wide pastures, rooting through the grass, resting under shady trees, and finally having room to simply be pigs. Space like this allows animals who have endured neglect, abandonment, or hardship to experience something many of them have never known before: freedom, safety, and peace.

For a sanctuary like Misfits of Oz, land means the ability to say “yes” to animals who need help and to ensure that every resident has the space they deserve to live a full and happy life. It means lush green pastures filled with grazing, and friends. It means safe, protected space for the wildlife that calls our area home. It means laying in the grass with pigs who need extra love and quiet, individual attention. It means forever, and that's what sanctuary is.

Imagine for a moment watching Benny and Jett wallow in this pond on a hot Oklahoma summer day. Their big bodies stretched out together in the cool water; to feel the breeze on their faces while they occasionally dunk it in the water to blow bubbles!

(Jett enjoying a cool wallow on a hot Oklahoma day)

The opportunities for comfort on this land are endless. With several existing water spots already, we have immediate access. With the surrounding land, we could create multiple wallows—open sunny wallows, shaded wallows, and even quiet spaces for pigs who prefer their own peaceful corner to relax.

What this land could become....

Securing this land would allow Misfits of Oz to grow in ways that support the animals for generations to come.

This land is already home to incredible wildlife.

Portions could remain protected habitat for the many species native wildlife who already call this land home, and keep them protected from outside dangers.

With expansive space and strategic planning, trails, guest cabins, volunteer and staff housing, educational facilities, event centers and gathering spaces could allow visitors to experience sanctuary life while helping support the animals.

The Path Forward...

Every acre protected brings us closer to turning this land into a sanctuary for animals and wildlife alike. A land where safety and comfort reign supreme for the most vulnerable animals. A land we can create a legacy that lives on far beyond today. A land that truly means Forever for Misfits of Oz.

Opportunities to Leave a Lasting Legacy:

For supporters who wish to make a larger impact, there are opportunities to help shape the future of this land in meaningful ways. Major gifts can help establish permanent sanctuary spaces and programs that will benefit animals for generations.

If you are interested in helping with a large gift, corporate sponsorship or match, we would love to connect with you directly via email at shanda@misfitsofoz.org

(Welcome ambassador Waylon with his signature smirk and one eared magnificence)

The Emerald Acres Map

To help bring this vision to life, we’re protecting the land acre by acre.

The 160 acres beyond our fence represent the future of Misfits of Oz- room for rescued pigs to roam, wildlife to thrive, supporters to gather, and sanctuary to grow for generations.

To make the journey visible, we’ve created the Emerald Acres Map. Each square represents one acre of land that can be protected by inching closer to our end goal. As donations come in, those acres will turn emerald green, showing the sanctuary growing piece by piece.

Every square filled is a permanent promise to the animals who will one day call this land home.

Watch the map grow with us.

Update #1 :

It begins. 💚

The first acre of The Land Beyond the Fence is officially funded.

160 acres may feel like a huge mountain to climb… but every journey starts with one step.

This is that step.

Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared, commented, and believed in this dream so far. This square represents all of you.

Now let’s keep going!

Update #2:

Recently, I had the opportunity to walk the land beyond our fence, and it exceeded every expectation I had. What I thought would be a great fit for the sanctuary revealed itself to be something truly extraordinary. There is already an incredible amount of open, usable space available without the need for extensive clearing, which allows us to immediately envision how the land could be thoughtfully utilized for both current and future residents. There are large areas of tree for shade and naps. As I walked through the property, I found myself naturally mapping out areas for grazing pastures, shaded resting spaces, wallows, medical and recovery areas, and places where visitors and volunteers could safely engage with the sanctuary. The land is already alive with wildlife... we observed dozens of deer moving peacefully through the property, along with other native species who clearly call this space home- something we are so passionate about not only preserving but also being a safe space for other wildlife in need.

Being able to experience it firsthand transformed this project from a hopeful idea into a tangible, deeply aligned vision for the future of Misfits of Oz. Look how incredibly beautiful this space is, and imagine it with me......

Bess running laps on an open pasture, when less than a year ago she couldn't walk.

Jim thoughtfully scoping out the new plants and learning what trees give his sweet pink skin the best sun protection.

Farley continuing his weight loss journey with long walks around the meadow.

Leonard creating the perfect wallow for him and his friends. I can see it, and that future looks beautiful! And with your help, we can make it REAL.

Acres upon acres of beautiful, usable land awaiting the animals of Oz.

Wildlife and Environment

This land is already home to an incredible amount of native wildlife. As we walked the property, we observed dozens of deer moving peacefully through the landscape, along with other species that rely on this ecosystem for shelter and safety. Protecting and preserving that natural balance is deeply important to us, and we are committed to ensuring this land remains a safe refuge not only for sanctuary animals, but for the wildlife who already call it home.

As part of evaluating the property, we also paid close attention to the plant life throughout the land. We made note of anything unfamiliar and identified potential toxic risks, and were encouraged to find that hazardous plants appear to be minimal. This allows us to thoughtfully plan safe grazing and living spaces for our residents while continuing to respect and protect the surrounding ecosystem.

We would also love to invite students from Oklahoma State University’s environmental sciences programs to study the flora and fauna of the land, creating opportunities for education, research, and deeper understanding of the ecosystem we are working to protect.

The way the sun shines on this property just feels magical.

A couple of large fenced areas already exist off the entrance drive of the property. Perfect for our pig "welcoming committee!"

Update #3 :

Community and Sustainability

This space represents more than housing animals- it represents connection, education, and long-term sustainability for the sanctuary and the community around it. With the addition of an education and event center, along with gathering spaces like a gazebo, we envision hosting student learning programs, volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, plant-based community dinners, and workshops that help people better understand and connect with animals.

This space could also serve as a hub for rescue groups across Oklahoma, providing a place to network, collaborate, and strengthen the collective effort to improve the lives of animals throughout our state.

Thoughtfully planned features such as a small merch space, guest and staff cabins, and rentable event areas would not only support these programs, but also create sustainable revenue streams that help ensure the long-term care of the animals.

Our hope is that this land becomes more than a sanctuary for animals, but also a sanctuary for people- a place where community, compassion, and collaboration come together to make Oklahoma a better place for animals and the people who care for them.

Vision for our welcoming drive into the property.

Once fully cleared, this would make for the most INCREDIBLE Oklahoma red dirt wedding backdrop

Who This is for

Wilbur is exactly why this work matters.

Our newest addition to the sanctuary...He is a large, slightly overweight, deaf Kune Kune pig, with limited vision, who was at risk of being euthanized due to what was described as aggressive behavior. But in our experience, aggression in pigs is often not what it seems; it is fear, confusion, discomfort, or unmet needs that haven’t been properly understood.

We said yes to Wilbur because pigs like him deserve a chance to be seen differently.

With over a decade of experience caring for pigs with complex medical and behavioral needs, Misfits of Oz often becomes the last option for animals who cannot receive the care they need elsewhere.

Expanding the sanctuary means being able to say yes to more animals like Wilbur- animals who are misunderstood, overlooked, or out of options, and giving them the space, patience, and care they deserve.

Shanda and Elvis, 2015

How it Started

I didn’t originally set out to run a pig sanctuary.

Over a decade ago, I began in dog rescue. But everything changed when I took in my first pig, Elvis, as a piglet. I quickly realized that caring for pigs is nothing like what most people expect- their emotional depth, intelligence, and needs are far more complex than many are prepared for.

As I learned and grew alongside Elvis, I began getting calls about other pigs in need. At the time, there were very few resources available, and it became clear how many were falling through the cracks. What started as one pet pig I'd waited all my life for, quickly turned into helping many, many more.

Over the years, I have cared for more than 300 pigs, while also assisting with transport, rehoming, and guidance for pig owners across the country. That experience has shaped the foundation of Misfits of Oz- a place built for the animals who need more and often have nowhere else to go, and support for the humans that need extra education to provide a happy lifelong home for their pig companions.

This is one of two custom-designed lift chutes we’ve had built to provide safe, accessible medical care for pigs with complex needs.

As we grow, so does our commitment to creating innovative solutions that improve quality of life- because the initial rescue is just the beginning.

Shanda doing hoof care maintenance.

Trusted Voices in Animal Care

“The Misfits of Oz – Land Beyond the Fence Project stands out as a model of compassionate, ethical, and responsible animal stewardship.”

Few organizations I have encountered maintain such a consistently high standard.”
— Dr. Shari Kennedy, OSU Veterinary Medicine

Not all rescues have the capacity or the knowledge to care for pigs appropriately as Misfits does.”
“Shanda and the team are dedicated, loving, steadfast, and responsible in the care of all animals.”
— Dr. Myriam Jimenez, OSU Veterinary Medicine
“Despite never having met in person, Shanda immediately stepped in and arranged for my pigs to be transported to safety within 24 hours.”
"I was a new pig owner, living a thousand miles away, and was immediately drawn to your organization’s mission—rescuing pigs, focusing on sick and injured animals, providing whatever medical care is necessary regardless of cost, and educating others on what it truly takes to properly care for pigs."
— Andrea Elliott, Supporter

Long term foster pigs, Frankie and Grace

Learn more about some of our residents and their stories here:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGcO0d1QoI/88JPgan_rla2ok_CXleFpw/edit?utm_content=DAGcO0d1QoI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

Leaving Your Mark on the Land

As we work to protect the Emerald Acres beyond our fence, some supporters may choose to leave a lasting mark on the sanctuary itself.

Certain contributions may be recognized through small markers placed on the land, or recognition along walking paths throughout the property.

These markers serve as reminders that this land was protected through the compassion and generosity of a community who believed animals deserved a safe place to call home.

$500 — Emerald Acre Supporter
Name listed on the Emerald Acres supporter board displayed at the sanctuary.

$1,000 — Sanctuary Path Marker
Recognition along our Yellow Brick Road to Forever acknowledging the donor’s contribution.

$3,500 — Protect an Acre
Recognition on the Emerald Acres Map and optional name marker placed on the protected acre.

$5,000 — Emerald Acre Guardian
A dedicated marker placed within the protected land recognizing the donor’s role in preserving sanctuary space.

$10,000 — Yellow Brick Road Steward
Recognition along the Yellow Brick Road to Forever with an engraved stone acknowledging the donor’s support.

$25,000 — Sanctuary Landmark Sponsor
Name recognition for a feature such as a pasture, wildlife habitat area, or wallow.

$50,000+ — Founding Steward of the Land of Oz
Permanent recognition on a main entrance monument or sanctuary welcome area.

Dog attack survivor, Hays.

Questions from Supporters:

What happens if the campaign does not reach the full amount needed to purchase the land?
All donations will be held in a dedicated account specifically for this land project. If the campaign ultimately cannot secure the property, donors will have the option to request their contribution be returned or allow it to remain dedicated to future land acquisition or sanctuary expansion.

Why is this specific location so important for the sanctuary?
Misfits of Oz is currently located less than 30 minutes from the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Hospital and veterinary professionals who help care for our residents. Remaining here allows us to maintain access to critical veterinary care while expanding the sanctuary’s ability to provide lifelong homes for animals. We have also laid important groundwork on our current property, built relationships with kind and supportive neighbors, and established close access to essential resources such as our local feed mill, farm supply stores, and nearby towns where we host fundraising events.

How will the sanctuary remain financially sustainable if the land is secured?
Additional acreage would allow Misfits of Oz to develop sustainable programs that support the animals long term. Potential opportunities include educational visits, sanctuary tours, community events, small weddings, and guest stays that help generate revenue while continuing to prioritize the wellbeing of the animals.

Will the sanctuary grow its team in the future?
Yes. One of the biggest limitations of the current property is space for people as well as animals. Expanding onto additional land would allow Misfits of Oz to create volunteer housing and eventually bring on additional staff to ensure the animals continue receiving the highest level of care.

What happens if the property sells before the campaign reaches the goal?
While we hope that doesn’t happen, it is always a possibility with land on the open market. If the property becomes unavailable, donations will remain dedicated to future land acquisition for the sanctuary unless a donor prefers their contribution be returned.

How long will this project take?

Securing the land itself is our most immediate priority, and we are working to raise those funds as quickly as possible.

Once the land is protected, the development of additional infrastructure will be a long-term process that unfolds over several years. Just as we have done on our current property, new spaces will be created thoughtfully and sustainably as resources allow- including pastures, shelters, medical facilities, and areas for community and educational programs.

Protecting the land is the first and most important step. From there, the sanctuary will continue to grow carefully over time.

How will the land be protected for sanctuary use long-term?

Misfits of Oz is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means any land acquired through this campaign would become a nonprofit asset dedicated to the sanctuary’s charitable mission of caring for animals.

Our goal is to ensure that this land remains permanent sanctuary space where rescued animals can live safely for generations to come. Long-term stability and continuity for the animals has always been an important priority for Misfits of Oz as the sanctuary grows.

Will the sanctuary immediately move animals onto the new land?

The land would first be secured and then developed thoughtfully over time. Just as we have done on our current property, new pastures, shelters, and infrastructure would be built carefully and responsibly as resources allow.

As the sanctuary grows, the additional space would allow us to create specialized areas for different needs. For example, healthier and more mobile animals could enjoy larger pasture spaces, while our current property could remain closer to the house and continue serving as a quieter area for animals who require more hands-on care, medical support, or monitoring.

Our priority will always be maintaining the highest standard of care for the animals already living at Misfits of Oz while expanding responsibly.

Will all new infrastructure need to be built immediately if the land is secured?

Not necessarily. Many of the structures currently used at Misfits of Oz were intentionally designed to be movable and adaptable. For example, our shipping container barns were chosen specifically because they can be relocated and repurposed as the sanctuary grows.

This means that some existing housing and infrastructure could move with us onto the new land and continue serving residents there. Over time, additional pastures, shelters, and facilities would be added thoughtfully as needed, just as we have done on our current property.

Our goal is always to grow responsibly, making the best use of the resources we already have while building the sanctuary’s future step by step.

Our current property. We love our location so much, and the dream of expansion and staying here forever is so important to us!

This journey is just beginning.

As we work toward protecting the land beyond our fence, we’ll be sharing regular updates on our progress, celebrating each acre secured, and introducing you to the animals whose lives are made possible by this sanctuary.

Check back often to follow the growth of the Emerald Acres map, learn more about how Misfits of Oz came to be, and hear the stories of the residents who remind us every day why this work matters.

Together, we’re not just protecting land- we’re building a future of compassion, one acre at a time.

The Land Beyond the Fence: Securing the forever home for Misfits of Oz