About us

How It Started

A Place of Healing, Built from Experience

Rock Island Farm was founded in July 2022 by someone who understood the emotional toll of caregiving firsthand. The farm began with the vision of creating a sanctuary where military families and caregivers could find peace and connection.

With nature and animal therapy at its core, the farm offers an environment where healing can flourish through meaningful experiences with animals, particularly rabbits, and nature-based activities.

Our approach

Our Mission

Bringing Peace to Those Who Give So Much

Rock Island Farm’s mission is to provide military families and caregivers with a safe and tranquil space where they can rest, reconnect, and feel truly supported. Through activities such as bunny therapy, family retreats, and nature immersion, the farm offers emotional relief and a sense of calm for those who bear the weight of caregiving. Every experience is designed to give these families the space to heal and feel valued.

Our Vision

A Community of Care and Connection

At Rock Island Farm, we envision a world where no military family or caregiver feels isolated. Our goal is to foster a caring community where these individuals can come together, find comfort, and be supported by others who understand their unique journeys. Through compassion and connection, we aim to create a space that promotes ongoing healing, personal growth, and emotional well-being.

The Data Tells Us Why

From emotional stress to financial burdens, these data points show the critical need for support.

Rock Island Farm is here to provide that support, with programs tailored to help military families and caregivers thrive.

Source: RAND Corporation’s Hidden Heroes: America’s Military Caregivers Study

Estimated # of Military Caregivers in VA’s 5th District

of Caregivers Experience Depression

Average Annual Income Lost due to Caregiving Responsibilities

Average Annual Out-of-pocket Expenses for Care-related Costs

Meet Our Founder

Betsy Eves didn’t just dream of starting a farm—she saw a need, felt the weight of caregiving herself, and found a way to bring healing and joy to others through it all. And of course, she knew bunnies were the key.

Turning Caregiving Into a Mission of Love

Betsy’s story starts with the same question many military caregivers ask: “Who’s taking care of us?” As a military spouse, Betsy saw firsthand the emotional toll that caregiving takes. She felt it deep in her bones—the exhaustion, the weight of responsibility, and the isolation that comes with loving and caring for someone who’s given so much. But instead of getting lost in the struggle, Betsy turned to her lifelong love of animals.

She always knew there was something magical about animals, especially bunnies. They’re soft, calm, and somehow always know when you need a little extra love. So, she decided to create a place where military families and caregivers could come to recharge, and where bunnies would be the ambassadors of comfort.

And that’s how Rock Island Farm came to life. What started as a small idea to blend her passion for animals and caregiving grew into a sanctuary for military families to rest, reconnect, and yes, cuddle with some of the fluffiest creatures on Earth. Today, the farm is thriving, and Betsy’s vision continues to grow as she builds a community around care, compassion, and some seriously cute bunnies.

work with betsy