Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge has a strong and growing relationship with UNC, including class collaborations, volunteer projects, campus events, and student organization partnerships. Recent and upcoming engagement includes work with courses in American Studies, English, Philosophy, Animal Law, and collaborations with student groups such as UNC Vegans for Peace. The Refuge has also welcomed numerous UNC student organizations and teams for volunteer experiences over the years.
Who is Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge
Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge is a nonprofit animal sanctuary that provides lifelong care to rescued farm animals, educates people about the realities of animal agriculture, and promotes veganism by offering knowledge, support, and community. Home to more than 100 rescued animals, including goats, sheep, cows, chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and a guinea fowl, the Refuge prioritizes safety, enrichment, social connection, and high-quality medical care for every resident. Their work is rooted in compassion, ethical responsibility, and education that empowers people to align their values with meaningful action.
What makes the Refuge unique is its pioneering of Animal-Centered Design, an approach that combines architectural principles with the ethic that animals’ needs come first. This philosophy moves beyond traditional farm structures to create environments designed around the animals’ natural behaviors and preferences. The Refuge has been accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) since 2019 and was recognized as the Outstanding Farmed Animal Sanctuary of the Year in 2023. An upcoming expansion will allow the Refuge to begin rescuing pigs as well.
Why Does Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge Recruit UNC Students?
UNC students are vital members of the local community, and the Refuge deeply values students’ curiosity, creativity, and sense of responsibility. Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge sees the college years as an important time for shaping ethical perspectives and welcomes students who want to explore how their education can translate into real-world impact.
Students can engage with the Refuge in a variety of ways, including individual and group volunteering, internships, educational events, tours, summer camps, cooking classes, talks, and movie nights.
Featured Opportunities for UNC Students (a/o Feb. 2026)
Animal Care Summer Internships
The Refuge is currently accepting applications for its Animal Care Summer Internship Program (applications close February 28, 2026). Interns gain hands-on experience caring for rescued farmed animals in a sanctuary setting while learning about animal welfare, daily operations, and public outreach. Interns also explore other sanctuary roles such as education and administration, making this an excellent opportunity for students considering careers in animal care, advocacy, education, or nonprofit work.
UNC Student Bus Program
Through the UNC Student Bus Program, the Refuge offers free transportation to and from the sanctuary for Tour & Explore events. Participants receive free admission to a guided sanctuary tour and a $25 voucher to enjoy lunch from on-site vegan food trucks. Spring tour dates will be announced soon.
Hear What Past Interns Have to Say…
“Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge provides lifelong care to rescued farm animals, educates people about the realities of animal agriculture, and promotes veganism by offering knowledge, support, and community. Their work is rooted in compassion, ethical responsibility, and education that empowers people to align their values with meaningful action.”
-Former UNC Interns @Piedmont Farm Animal Refuge
“The Refuge provides a great education on animal care responsibilities while also teaching about proper animal welfare in all regards. This internship was the assurance I needed that animal care work is the career for me.”
“It was a fun, educational experience full of personal growth that will stay with me throughout my career.”
“My personal relationship with animals grew a lot stronger—it was the opportunity I was looking for to put my beliefs into practice.”
How Can You Get Involved?
UNC students interested in internships, volunteering, tours, or class service projects are encouraged to connect.
- Primary Contact: Dr. Kate Altizer, Education Director (education, tours, service projects, summer camps)
- General Inquiries: [email protected] or www.piedmontrefuge.org
