The health and safety of our Ranchers and Staff have remained the highest priority during our response to COVID-19. During 2020 and 2021, thoughtful planning and diligent adherence to safety protocols have kept Rainbow Acres free of coronavirus cases.
Still, some hard choices needed to happen. Starting in mid-March 2020, Rainbow Acres has been closed to visitors, volunteers and non-essential personnel. We have continued to follow directives from Federal, State and County health agencies to minimize the risk of contracting the coronavirus for our Ranchers and Staff. Monitoring daily health, daily temperature checks and being unwavering about infection control practices have been imperative. For everyone, the emphasis is on washing hands, wearing masks, and social distancing. Sanitizing surfaces has increased to multiple times each day in common areas (offices, kitchens, and within the homes).
Rancher Health & Safety
Rancher travel has been restricted to medical appointments and emergencies. If outside travel is necessary (to/from families), returning Ranchers are required to provide proof of a negative COVID test within 72 hours prior to their return; must return in a state of wellness; and must have daily wellness checks for up to two weeks. Rancher activities are oriented to each house, Rainbow Acres applies holistic approach to address pandemic where the Ranchers are sheltering in place, with no congregate activities. Groups from each house attend programs in the Worden Taber Center, participate in Arts & Crafts and Music classes, visit the Barn and Greenhouses, and go for walks around the Ranch. Also, each house hosts “special topics” activities every day (enrichment activities created by the Education team and caregivers), and the Ranch has hosted new events like a 4th of July “water park” and a vehicular parade around the campus and a recent socially distant Fall Festival & Barbeque. Fun holiday festivities are planned as well, with an eye on public safety for all.
COVID-19 Management & Staff Protocols
The Rainbow Acres Senior Leadership team created a matrix for risk management and mitigating the spread of COVID-19 based on the level of infection in Yavapai County (and subject to the advice of health officials). This matrix guides the daily decision-making process as conditions change on the Ranch and in the County. The matrix eliminates uncertainty that could lead to delays in decision-making when new issues arise. In addition, Rainbow Acres Staff have maintained a socially and physically distanced life outside of the Ranch when not working. Masks are worn by employees on Ranch.
Please stay safe! Thank you for your patience, prayers and support! We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the Ranchers and our employees throughout this unprecedented pandemic.
Original post: November 10, 2020
Last update: November 10, 2021