Mike Cooper, Co-Founder, The Missed Path Sanctuary
Marc DiFrancia, Co-Founder, The Missed Path Sanctuary
Values and the Missed Path Sanctuary:
Why We Pour Our Hearts Into Our Community
Welcome to the Missed Path Sanctuary, a place where horses find refuge and people find connection. Our mission is simple yet profound: to nurture and support not only the horses that come through our gates but also the community that surrounds us. Here, values are not just words; they are the compass that guides our every decision.
We believe in investing our resources into community support because we understand that a thriving sanctuary is one that grows alongside its community. When we uplift those around us, we create a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings, creating a space where both horses and humans can heal, learn, and flourish.
Our Core Values
At the heart of the Missed Path Sanctuary are our core values: compassion, responsibility, and connection. These values are the foundation of everything we do.
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Compassion drives us to provide the best care for our horses, ensuring they live in a safe and loving environment where every animal is treated with patience, kindness, and respect.
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Responsibility means we are committed to making thoughtful decisions that benefit both our equine residents and our human neighbors—whether in horse care, resource management, or how we show up for others.
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Connection reminds us that we are stronger together. It’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging where people and horses alike feel safe and valued.
By embodying these principles in our daily work, we aim to inspire others to adopt similar values in their own lives, creating a network of support and empathy that strengthens the entire community.
The Importance of Community Support
Community support is the lifeblood of the Missed Path Sanctuary. Without it, our mission would be incomplete. A strong community network helps us achieve our goals by providing a sustainable environment for both the sanctuary and its residents.
We’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when people come together for a shared purpose. When the community rallies around a cause, it creates a ripple effect of positive change. The bonds we form with our community members are not just transactional; they are transformative, allowing us to grow and adapt to the ever-changing needs of both our horses and the people who care for them.
The Missed Path Sanctuary

Asheville Area Focus is sponsored by United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County
