It’s not every day you get to combine public relations and pig snuggles, but that’s exactly what PRSA Pittsburgh’s Public Service Committee is doing this year. The committee has partnered with Hope Haven Pet Sanctuary, a nonprofit that rescues, rehabilitates, and gives forever homes to animals who might not otherwise get a second chance. Think less “animal shelter” and more “barnyard retirement dream.”
Situated just outside Pittsburgh in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Hope Haven Pet Sanctuary spans six acres and is home to a wide array of rescued farm animals, each with a unique story of struggle and triumph. Some are elderly, medically fragile, or simply not considered adoptable elsewhere. From the biggest farm pigs to the smallest bantam roosters, every resident receives specialized, lifelong care. That might mean physical therapy for a goat with a limp or a custom-built ramp for a senior sheep.
Founded by veterinarian Karen Phillips, VMD, Hope Haven began with a simple but life-changing question. During a long drive from Vermont to Pittsburgh, Karen reflected on her career and the growing number of farm animals being surrendered to the shelter where she worked. After personally caring for many of them at home, including a piglet named Isaac who showed her just how affectionate pigs can be, she knew she had to do more.
In 2011, she purchased a neglected six-acre property and began transforming it into a sanctuary. Over time, the land became a haven for animals with barns, a duck pond, vegetable gardens, walking trails, and customized spaces to meet the physical and emotional needs of each resident.
“Creating Hope Haven has taken so much work,” said Karen. “But the effort has had unbelievable payoff. The joy and peace this sanctuary brings to visitors and animals is life-changing. It’s extremely satisfying to know that Pittsburgh benefits from having a compassionate source for farm animal welfare information and humane education.”
This mission of healing and awareness has found a natural ally in PRSA Pittsburgh. Through the Public Service Committee, communication professionals and volunteers will support Hope Haven by developing branding tools, enhancing donor outreach, and providing resources for long-term communication efforts.
The PRSA Pittsburgh Public Service Project is an annual initiative with goals of supporting local nonprofits and providing hands-on experience to its members. If you are interested in joining the 2025 public service committee, email Public Service Chair Alexis Miller at amoralexismil@gmail.com. To learn more about Hope Haven Pet Sanctuary or to meet some of the animals yourself, visit hopehavenfarm.org.
