June 2026 Newsletter
We should probably start by saying this: we are having a blast.
In between the very real moments of panic, the “Oh Lord, how are You going to pull this off?” prayers, and the steady hope of “one day, these doors will be open,” we are truly enjoying the journey.
It is hard to describe the joy that comes from pursuing a God-given dream wholeheartedly, but man, it is special.
We also want to say thank you - truly - to everyone who has given so generously toward this mission. None of this would be possible without the founding support that has freed us up to pursue Cedar Refuge full time. We are deeply grateful.
And one more big thank you to a recent private donor who generously gave $10,000. What an incredible blessing.
The Biggest Little Farm Tour
We also had the opportunity to tour the famed Apricot Lane Farms, featured in The Biggest Little Farm documentary.
The farm was truly beautiful. Seeing the artistry woven into the biodiverse, regenerative restoration of the land was incredible. This one definitely got our wheels turning.
Watch Our Tour Here
After the tour, we drove away and spent nearly an hour talking back and forth about everything we had learned and all the ways it could inspire what we are building at Cedar Refuge.
The dream of creating a farm like this - a place where children healing from complex trauma from trafficking can simply be, learn life skills, and be surrounded by the peace and beauty of nature - is so exciting to imagine as we continue to plan.
Unfortunately, Hope Refuge had to cancel our in-person tour at the last minute due to a surprise licensing audit. We are still looking forward to connecting with them and will be doing a virtual program tour in early August.
Hunkering Down for What’s Ahead
Our original plan was to host an event every three months, which would have put our next event in July. But events take a lot of time, energy, and planning, and we realized that attention was being pulled from the main goal for this year: business planning and program development.
Gipes Strategic Planning
Once the plan and program are finalized, we will begin presenting our vision, mission, and strategy to large donors and investors. We have already had several conversations where people have walked away saying, “Wow, you guys are not messing around!” So we are feeling very motivated and hopeful for what is ahead.
Our goal is to begin those presentations in September or October. And the next phase looks like it may be fundraising for the property - ahhh!
With that in mind, if you know of any potential large donors who may be interested in this mission, please let us know. We would love to connect!
Fast Updates
We have an amazing volunteer helping us explore ways Cedar Refuge can begin serving in the community now, as well as researching funding options connected to those services.
This week, we met with a local foster agency that shared about the gap in life skills support for children in the system. They also emphasized the importance of mentorship, which continues to confirm the need for what we are building.
We got a new stock of merch in and will be sending out orders soon! Hats are back for those who asked!
This Is Happening
This week, we found ourselves saying, “This is happening… like, it is really happening!”
This journey has already been such a ride, and we feel so blessed to be on it.
Our daughter, Quinn, would also like you to know: “I’m a big sister! Mommy has a baby in her belly!”
So while our mission grows, so does our family! We are full of gratitude for all that God is doing and so thankful to have you walking with us.
With gratitude,
Steven and Brandyn Gipe
Founders & Executive Directors