The Rusty Goat Christmas List

The Farm's Biggest Needs...

There are two questions put to me most often about “The Rusty Goat.” First: What is it? That’s easy! The Rusty Goat is a place of renewal for those who would benefit from much needed rest and reconnection. We offer time and space for short-stay, no-cost sabbaticals and retreats; serving individuals, families, and groups who would not otherwise be able to financially afford such a time away. When available, the farm is also provided to artists, writers, and other creatives in search of respite or a time of spiritual retreat. Multiple individuals and families have made use of the farm this year - both on-site and by way of partnership with two other facilities - one at the beach and another in the Appalachian mountains.

Second question: How can I help? That’s easy too!

• You can volunteer for work days. We will have a ton of those coming up after the holidays, and tasks to complete will include everything from landscaping to construction. The Rusty Goat Facebook Page will keep you up to date, as will the “ReNew” page on my personal website.

• You can become a sustaining partner. With 75 more people giving a one-time gift of $6,000 to The Rusty Goat, all debts would be retired and the farm would be operational in perpetuity.

• You can fund (and/or work on) a specific project. We have a few of varying costs and importance:

  • A New Well. The current (and only) water source is 50 years old and is shedding do much iron we will have to change the name of the farm to the rusty pipes without an intervention. Cost: $10,000. Importance: Urgent.

  • Roof For Farm House. It’s Florida, you know. Proper insurance isn’t happening in 2025 without a new roof. Cost: $25,000. Importance: High.

  • Barn Renovation: The main barn on property is going to become the most groovy outdoor venue to grace the piney woods of Walton County. Cost: $15,000. Importance: Medium.

  • Fencing: The Rusty Goat needs new fencing. That’s almost 9 acres square. Volunteers are ready. Just need the funding. Cost: $12,000. Importance: Medium.

  • Additional Cottage. This will be an 800 square feet bungalow for smaller families to use, and will double as housing for long-term volunteers or caretakers. Cost: $80,000+. Importance: Low/Long-term.

Thanks for reading, supporting, asking these above questions, and helping us bring The Rusty Goat to fulfillment. May you all have a Merry Christmas, and we hope to see you at the farm in the New Year! Ronnie and Cindy