Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharlee Fleshman.
Hi Sharlee, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started rescuing farm animals 10 years ago. Our first farm animal was our 800lb pig Clementine, aka Piggy Smalls. We slowly started building up enclosures for goats and chickens. We never turned down an animal in need.
I am a zoology major and had planned to go to veterinary school but life took its’ own twists and turns.
During covid, friends and family always asked to come see the animals. One day I decided to advertise an Interactive Farm Tour and that is how the business Dragonfly Acres was born.
We named our farm years prior. I love dragonflies and their spiritual symbolism.
Through the years (4 years in business this month) – we evolved into offering educational programs/experiences for all ages and all abilities. Sensory Friendly and welcoming to the neurodivergent families too
Back to Nature Vibe – Animals are Healers – Not a Petting Zoo
This business allows me to offer my education, knowledge, teaching empathy, compassion and giving something back to our community of supporters who help us care and maintain the animals/farm.
We are officially a 501c3 non profit (going on 3 years)
Dragonfly Acres, LLC
Dragonfly Acres Farm, Inc
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not a smooth road in the animal world
Financially difficult and very exhausing work 24/7
Balancing family and the business has been very hard
And finding alignment with our mission has been a long road
Mom of 2
Wife of 1
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Dragonfly Acres Farm, Inc
https://dragonflyacresfarm.org
All about our rescue farm and we just want support so we can continue to care for our animals and rescue more.
All events are fudnraisers for the non profit
Dragonfly Acres, LLC
https://dragonflyacresfarm.com
Educational Programs, Field Trips, Equine Connection Sessions, Roots Back to Nature Homeschooling Program, Yoga ( I am a yoga teacher too), Farm Days – Wondrous Wednesdays
All Ages and All Abilities
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
i have no advice. I honestly feel like I have been on the giving end my entire life of helping others
i would love a mentor (maybe)
I also started a Creative Connections – A Collaborative Circle for Women with a friend of mine
That welcomes all women who have a dream, business idea, run a business or non profit – a safe space to share, collaborate or just listen
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dragonflyacresfarm.com
- Instagram: @dragonflyacres_farm
- Facebook: @thedragonflyacresfarm
- Other: https://dragonflyacresfarm.org
