Glen Ellen Vocational Academy (GEVA) is one of America’s oldest rescue organizations, founded in California in 1995 by former racetrack steward Pam Berg.

The foundation has rehabilitated, placed, and provided safe haven for hundreds of Thoroughbreds, for which Berg has been honored with the Dogwood Dominion Award as one of racing’s “unsung heroes.” She also was inducted into the Equus Hall of Fame of the Sonoma Horse Council. “GEVA was founded for injured, retired, and abused horses or those just in need of a home,” Berg said. “GEVA is dedicated to preventing slaughter, needless euthanasia, and abuse of horses in any way.”

Most horses become permanent pensioners at the sanctuary since they don’t have the option of a second career. “There is so much emphasis on second careers nowadays that those who can’t have a second career need to be assured of a comfortable retirement,” Berg said.

GEVA, also accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, focuses on the rehabilitation and retirement of the sport’s noble racetrack warriors, from the lowest claimer to the stakes winners. GEVA’s mission is to be the best friend and advocate for each individual horse.

Over the years GEVA has had an established relationship with Santa Rosa Junior College, with Berg being on its Equine Advisory Committee. For many years UC-Davis Veterinary Medicine Club members came to GEVA for their dental wet labs twice a year prior to COVID, and many Sonoma State University students have done their volunteer hours at the farm.

Clinics and seminars can be arranged upon request, as well as farm tours. Through fundraising and informational efforts, GEVA attempts to educate the public about horse racing, as well as the inherent responsibility in the ownership and care of horses.

GEVA is fortunate to have many supporters, including Ridgewood Ranch, the home of the famous Seabiscuit.

GEVA is currently located among the vineyards in beautiful Sonoma Valley. However, a 136-acre farm in Oregon may become a home for some of GEVA’s horses in the future.

GEVA is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is completely dependent upon grants and tax-deductible charitable donations and fundraising efforts.