Be a Lifeline for Animals Left Behind
Welcome to Villa Chardonnay, where over 600 rescued animals—horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, cats, and even a turkey—find love, safety, and a second chance at life. Since 2003, we’ve been dedicated to providing a forever home to animals who have been abandoned, neglected, or abused, ensuring they live out their days in peace and comfort. By being a lifeline for these incredible creatures, your tax-deductible donations and ongoing support truly make a world of difference. Together, we can give them the care, compassion, and second chance they deserve!
Monika is the president and founder of Villa Chardonnay, Horses with Wings, an organization committed to rescuing and caring for horses and other animals. A lifelong horse and animal lover, Monika began riding English in 1986 and rescued her first horse, a thoroughbred, from slaughter at the age of 20. Her unwavering passion for animals has made her a strong advocate for NO KILL NO EXCEPTIONS organizations.
Monika holds both a B.A. and an MBA, with a background in Marketing and Graphic Design. She is also a successful entrepreneur, having owned several businesses, including a small chain of restaurants and a French Bistro.
Among Monika’s notable rescues is a thoroughbred named Melajim, who won his last race at three years old. Neglected by his wealthy owners, Melajim was destined for slaughter due to a tendon disease. Upon learning of his fate through her veterinarian, Monika intervened just in time to save him. She nursed him back to health and later competed with him in horse show jumping, where they won numerous ribbons.
Monika’s profound love for horses and animals has been a guiding force throughout her life. She has always envisioned creating a sanctuary for horses and all creatures, providing them with a safe haven filled with love and care. Her compassion and dedication ensure that there is always room for more animals in her heart and at Villa Chardonnay.
Kelly Roscamp2024-07-22While visiting Julian I had the privilege of visiting this amazing place and the people who care enough to do a wonderful cause for animals. They were so sweet and gracious, if I had a million dollars I would donate it to them. We donated a sunscreen and plan to donate more to their cause. The horses are so fat and happy, the place is gorgeous. There is so much love and great energy in what they are doing. God bless these wonderful people and the animals that are residing there so happily. I will be back to volunteer my time with them.Sergey Levinson2024-06-16My family visited Villa Chardonnay Horses With Wings on June 15, 2024. This sanctuary unlike any other, dedicated to providing a loving, forever home to animals that have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. This incredible place has been a beacon of hope for over 600 animals, including horses, goats, dogs, cats, and even wild turkeys. Founded in 2003, Villa Chardonnay stands as the largest animal sanctuary in Southern California. The team at Villa Chardonnay is truly passionate about their mission. They work tirelessly to ensure that each animal receives the critical care and compassion they deserve, often taking in those with special needs or those in the final stages of their lives. What makes Villa Chardonnay special is not just the care they provide but the deep respect and dignity they offer to each animal. They believe in giving these animals a second chance at life, providing them with medical care, a loving environment, and the opportunity to live out their days in peace. The sanctuary operates largely through donations from the community. Despite the challenges of funding and public awareness, Villa Chardonnay continues to thrive, demonstrating the profound impact of compassion and commitment. If you're looking for a place that truly makes a difference in the lives of animals, I highly recommend supporting Villa Chardonnay. Their work is a proof, that kindness can make a huge difference in the world.Cheri Karnbach2024-04-08The place is amazing. Horses have so much room to be horses. They have so many different kinds of rescues ravine, pigs, cows, goats and of course dogs and cats. All which are very well cared for. And Monika is more than willing to show you around.Kelley B2024-03-17Monika and Mercedes have the most gentle souls. The sanctuary is absolutely beautiful and the animals are well loved and taken care of. A little piece of heaven on earth.Marie Daly2024-03-10Despite the fact animals don’t have souls so can’t go to heaven, no worries as this is it, on earth. Such lucky creatures to arrive here:)Mary Dragieff2024-03-02VILLA CHARDONNAY Horses with Wings, is truly a wonderful sanctuary for Horses and all of Gods creations. I have visited this place twice in 3 years (as resent as February 2024) and the need continues to grow, as do the animals in need of help. Some are blind, some with life-long injuries, some abused, malnourished, and left to die in pastures or streets of this state and outside of it. The owners who personally manage this refuge for animals, are truly "angels from above." They tirelessly care for needy animals with a relatively modest staff. I urge everyone that have a similiar love for animals to donate financially whatever they can to keep this santuary functioning. It is a nonprofit, so all donations are tax deductible. Include them in your Living Trust as we have, or help annually. Villa Chardonnay also continues to add on to their santuary for the kitties, so more can live a life in the safety of a building and outdoor enclosure in nice weather. The owners are the "real deal" with endless love for the animals entrusted to them. Corporate donations help enormously to sustain well over 200 horses, and many more friends. Just imagine what it takes to feed and care for 200+ horses. Add to that number all the other animals being cared for each and every day. I pray they continue their mision of love for many decades.House CA2024-02-23Are you a feline lover looking for a meaningful way to make a difference? Look no further than Villa Chardonnay. These sanctuaries provide a safe haven for cats in need, offering them shelter, care, and the chance to find their forever homes. I recently had the pleasure of visiting here, and I was blown away by the dedication and love shown by the volunteers. From providing medical care to socializing with the cats, their commitment to improving the lives of these furry friends is truly inspiring. But they can't do it alone. Cat sanctuaries rely on the generosity of donors to continue their important work. Your donation, no matter how small, can make a big difference in the lives of these cats. It can help provide food, veterinary care, and enrichment activities to keep them happy and healthy. Your contribution will not only help support the cats currently in their care but also enable them to rescue and rehabilitate even more cats in the future. Together, we can ensure that every cat has the chance to live a life filled with love and happiness. Amazing works ❤️Trisha Rubbo2024-02-20Villa Chardonnay is such an amazing and special place. Monika and Mercedes are doing such wonderful work taking care of the animals. I have volunteered there and it is a special place and you can see how well the animals are cared for at their forever home. It truly is a sanctuary and a great place to donate or volunteer at if you are looking for an opportunity to help animals!katrin davis2024-02-08this sanctuary is absolute paradise for animals of all kinds, from cats and dogs, to goats, horses, cows, and more.. every rescued animal here is free to live out their lives and enjoy their beautiful surroundings with love and special care. I was very impressed by the cattery, with dozens of cats living harmoniously in a clean and cozy environment. once the weather is nicer, the cats will be able to enjoy a dreamy, secure outdoor space that was recently constructed, with a fountain, lots of perches, and views of wild turkeys and horses. monika was so kind to share a good part of her afternoon with us, introducing us to all the cats and telling us where they came from. she knows and cares deeply about each and every animal here. please consider donating to help villa chardonnay continue the important, life-saving work they’ve been doing for animals for over 20 years.
Join us in making a difference —support the lives we save at Villa Chardonnay.
USPS DOES NOT DELIVER TO THE PHYSICAL ADDRESS. MUST USE :-
PO BOX 1000, Julian, CA 92036
An Approved 501c3 Charitable Organization
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