Creating Heaven on Earth, one act of love at a time.
The Blue Heart Sanctuary began with a simple vision — to create a refuge for both animals and people. As an Animal Sanctuary Retreat in Western NC, we honor the healing connection between humans, animals, and nature.
More than a safe haven for rescued animals, the Sanctuary is also a peaceful oasis. Here, individuals and communities come to find rest, clarity, and meaningful transformation.
Our mission is rooted in one guiding truth: unconditional love heals. Because of this, we focus on nurturing compassion, resilience, and well-being. We do so through gentle engagement with animals, quiet time in nature, and holistic wellness practices.
At Blue Heart Sanctuary, animals who have experienced abandonment, neglect, or trauma are given the space to heal. At the same time, we offer experiences that support people in reconnecting with themselves, the land, and the quiet wisdom of their own hearts.
In addition, our educational programs — especially those created for children — encourage empathy, stewardship, and respect for all living beings. Through community outreach, we extend our mission beyond the Sanctuary. As a result, we inspire others to live with greater compassion, awareness, and care for the natural world.
How it All Began...
With a heart full of love and a deep connection to all living beings, Amma Sól felt the call to serve. She envisioned a refuge where animals in need could live in peace, safety, and unconditional love.
In 2001, she followed that calling and founded Blue Heart Sanctuary as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) animal rescue organization. The Sanctuary was first established in Myakka City, Florida, where Amma also served as an animal cruelty investigator for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
Over the years, she rescued and rehabilitated hundreds of animals. Many had endured severe neglect or cruelty. Each one found safety, healing, and a lifelong home.
Then, after a near miss from Hurricane Charley in 2004, Amma relocated more than sixty farm and companion animals from Florida’s Gulf Coast to higher ground. Their journey led them to the mountains of Western North Carolina.
It was Divinely Orchestrated for them to find the perfect place, forty acres of ancient Cherokee land that has since become a beacon of Love and Light, and a haven of Peace for All.
What began as a sanctuary for animals has organically evolved into a wellness and retreat center, where people can disconnect from the noise of the outer world and reconnect with the beauty, stillness, and wisdom of nature and feel the unconditional love of the animals who call this land home.
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy;
O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.