Connect with Rescue Animals at West Place Animal Sanctuary’s Accessible Tours
- Aug 8, 2025
- 2 min read
Farm Animal Sanctuary Expands Accessibility with Driving Tours
August 9, 2025
West Place Animal Sanctuary announced a major step forward in accessibility and inclusion with the addition of a brand-new electric vehicle designed for guided driving tours. The CRU by Club Car—a quiet, eco-friendly, and spacious five-passenger cart—will allow visitors with mobility challenges to fully experience the sanctuary, meet the rescued farm animals, and enjoy the beauty of the historic West Place grounds.
"This has been a long time coming," says Wendy Taylor, founder and executive director of West Place. "We have always wanted to offer visitation options to those who cannot participate in walking tours, and now we can finally welcome guests of all abilities to connect with our mission and the animals who call West Place home."
The introduction of the CRU makes West Place fully accessible, opening the door for a wider audience to experience its transformative work in farm animal rescue, rehabilitation, and humane education. With panoramic views and a smooth, quiet ride, the electric vehicle enhances the guest experience without disturbing the animals or their peaceful environment.
Driving tours are now available by appointment, and West Place recommends scheduling visits at least one week in advance. Driving tours also help generate financial support for the nonprofit's unique and lifesaving work with underrepresented and underserved animal populations—an important aspect since the vehicle itself is not yet fully funded.
"The CRU is actually our newest arrival," Taylor quips," and we are still actively fundraising to cover the cost to our organization to make the sanctuary fully accessible. Much has changed since we put down the initial deposit and several of the philanthropic commitments to West Place have not come to fruition. We could really use a boost to make sure driving tours are a permanent offering."
Driving tours can be scheduled online at westplace.org/private-tours, or by phone at 401-228-6800.
The CRU is also available to those can walk the grounds, but prefer to cruise in comfort. West Place is currently offering a special launch discount, and tour fees benefit the sanctuary.
As part of its Fall Visitors Weekend on September 6th and 7th, West Place will also offer special 4 PM driving tours on both days.
Community members including businesses and advocates of accessibility and animal welfare are encouraged to contribute toward this vital addition by donating at westplace.org/CRU.
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