M.A.R.S. is in a bit of a quandry. What to do about reopening to the public, or reopening in some way, as a place where visitors and birds can continue to share amazing experiences together. All of us here at M.A.R.S. have contributed a hand in creating an enviornment that would allow just that interaction. Unfortunately things change, circumstances ensue and then new solutions need to be researched and implemented.
In the beginning Melbourne Avian Rescue Sanctuary was open almost every day of the week and all the time, 11:00 to 4:30. Weather, back then, was our only obstacle to opening, as our visitor area was and is still an all outside, uncovered venue. Then as we grew Volunteers and their ability to be available on certain days became an issue and we cut our days to 4 days a week. Now with the rising cost of liability insurance, and lack of any substancial donations from the majority of our visitors, we once again have to reconsider what to do to keep our doors open for all of you who support M.A.R.S. and enjoy visiting our parrot rescue and adoption facility.
Please know, that a solution is going to show itself and hopefully soon. But for the time being M.A.R.S. will continue to set up appointments for visiting the adoptable birds here at M.A.R.S.. All you have to do is e-mail marsparrots@aol.com. and I will give you details. There are so many amazing parrots waiting to become your new family member, and it is our promise to you with our no fault adoption policy that we achieve this goal.
Thank-you for reading, and more on this topic will follow shortly.
Lu, you made it possible for us to get thru a family tragedy by taking wonderfull care of our Lady Gulliver. We are praying for great solutions to current concerns about M.A.R.S. Your love for birds is a gift to all of us! Hugs. Dot
Charge admission. I’ve been wanting to come over and see the place for a long time and health issues, an unexpected move that took over 2 months to complete, ill health and many other things combined to keep us away. But we would be happy to pay a fee to visit. Also, having visitors sign liability wavers may go a long way toward avoiding law suits. Just a couple of suggestions.
I agree that a waiver should be signed before allowing visitors on site. Also a sign posted that you are not responsible for any accidents. I also think the appointments are a good idea, and maybe have a public welcome day once in awhile.
I agree, charge admission or request donations at the door of specific brands of food, etc.
Freada, We considered that option but although charging admission might be a viable one it still could not generate enough to cover the liability insurance we must carry and also the additional coverage we must get every time we want to do a special event here at MARS or on off site venues. Membership might be an oprion but we then must have a volunteer dedicated to keeping track of that and collecting the yearly dues that would be due. Still, we will figure out a way, and soon. Thanks for commenting and reading this.
I might be willing to consider volunteering to handle the membership/renewal job, but would want to meet with you to learn what you have in mind. When is your next open day?
How about (for open to the public days) by the door
you could have a sign in book that also states cautions , so in effect someone is signing a waiver? And if addresses are. Included you will have a mailing list for advertising events?
Thou art awesome!
Dot although this is a wonderful idea the by appointment only is working for now. We just cannot spread ourselves to thin as the saying goes. The public gave little to no support for the cost incurred for carrying liability and then there is the work entailed on the property every day just to keep an open door policy. So more thinking on this for now. Keep those thoughts a coming though, so appreciate all.
No scheduled open days at this time. We are trying to figure out how to do just that. Please e-mail marsparrots@aol.com and we will set up an appt to meet. I am having a sale here at M.A.R.S. this weekend and will advertise it asap. I was thinking about a membership drive in conjunction with the sale, a seperate table so to speak.