About Us

Farm Friends Rescue was founded by Pittsboro, NC resident Karen Hall.  For her, it all started at a young age when she decided she would like to run an animal rescue for coonhounds.  She was 12 years old at the time.  As an adult, Karen helped as an advocate for animals with the Lee County animal shelter in Lee County, NC.  She also began fostering animals with several other local rescues and as a result, got a taste for what running a rescue looks like.  In 2013, Karen was able to see her childhood dream through to fruition.  At last, Farm Friends Rescue became part of Chatham County, NC!  Rather than being a rescue for coonhounds only, FFR became a rescue for all animals. 

In the early days, Farm Friends Rescue was a one-woman show.  Karen would rescue overlooked animals at our local shelters and find homes for them on her own.  With the help of several people who owned big farms, she was able to rescue large animals in need, also.  Over time, the rescue grew, and more people joined the team to offer up their time and homes in order to help foster the animals.  This enabled FFR to save more and more animals in need.

In July of 2015, Karen applied for non-profit status with the United States IRS.  On September 11, 2015, Karen got the official approval from the IRS.  From this date on, FFR has operated as a registered 501(c)3, non-profit organization!

Today, the rescue consists of a board of directors and thrives with the help of its volunteers in Chatham County and its surrounding areas.  FFR volunteers come from all walks of life, all ages and bring many great skills to the table.  Through the years, Farm Friends has stayed true to Karen’s vision.  Our animals come from many different situations and many different places… shelters, stray situations, abuse and neglect cases, owner relinquishment and natural disasters, just to name a few.  We provide these animals love, shelter, nourishment, medical care, stability and training with the help of our amazing foster families!​