Alma Bonita means beautiful soul, and it applies equally to every animal who makes their home there

Photo courtesy ABAR
Norman the cow, and Mandy, Nelson and Sebastian the donkeys, lounging in their new bedtime corral.

By Cheri Brown

Cheri Brown

Perched in the hills near Uvas Reservoir lies a haven for animals who’ve been neglected, rejected, or simply need to be re-homed. At Alma Bonita Animal Rescue (ABAR), these animals thrive with a herd they can spend the rest of their days with under the care of Sheila Murphy, ABAR’s founder, a herd of human volunteers and many financial donors.

With a doctorate degree in educational leadership and a master’s degree in supervision and administration, Murphy is an educator by trade. She uses that training with the ABAR programs that are available to schools and families.

“I want to teach kids about social emotional aspects, and help kids make connections with animals,” she said. “When children hear the stories of an animal overcoming a hard life and thriving, they can see how they too can overcome issues. I try to tie stories of the animals to lessons of perseverance and resilience.”

When the Magical Bridge was under construction, Sheila received a call from a construction worker. He had rescued a white domestic duck from a dog’s mouth. Someone had dumped the duck at the park’s pond, thinking it would be a safe place for them. Domestic ducks are not accepted by wild ducks, and he was an easy target as prey. The worker called ABAR, and Morgan the duck now happily lives at Alma Bonita.

ABAR raises funds through donations, school assemblies, hosting tours for families with a requested (but not mandatory donation), and in the future they will host events. Imagine having your birthday or wedding celebration on a secluded farm surrounded by 85 rescued animals.

Morgan the rescued duck.
Photo courtesy ABAR

Alma Bonita is one of many nonprofits that belong to the Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce. Sheila joined when she started ABAR.

“I felt lost when I first started ABAR and the Chamber changed that for me,” she said. “The people there are supportive and welcoming.”

ABAR has participated in many of the Chamber events, including their nonprofit Expo and a booth at the Friday Night Music Series.

ABAR recently found a new home — they have spent the past few months moving the animals one group at a time.

“As soon as the five donkeys moved into their new home, they started running in circles kicking up, exhibiting joy,” Murphy shared.

The rain has caused major setbacks, damaging areas and adding to their costs. With the help of volunteers, they are nearly finished. ABAR is hosting a celebration of their new home at an Open House from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 29. Tickets ($10 to $15 per person) may be purchased at www.almabonitaanimalrescue.org, food is available for purchase and carpooling is recommended as parking is limited.

Alma Bonita means beautiful soul, and it applies equally to every animal who makes their home there, as well as to Sheila Murphy who has created this beautiful refuge. To donate or learn more go to their website: www.almabonitaanimalrescue.org.

Cheri Brown is a board member for the Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce. She writes articles on behalf of the Chamber highlighting a few of the hundreds of Chamber members. She owns her own independent insurance brokerage, selling Medicare insurance. She can be reached at [email protected].