For more than 20 years, Meg Weinberger has been a dedicated advocate for both people and animals. With a mission to protect and defend Florida’s citizens, families and the animals that enrich their lives, she has made significant contributions through her philanthropic efforts.
At home, Weinberger’s life is a bustling hub of activity. She shares her home with her husband Eric, daughters Zoie and Riley, 14 dogs, 30 cats, two zebras, four donkeys, four goats, two alpacas, nine pigs, 16 swans, 20 ducks and two cows, adding joy and liveliness to her life.
Weinberger’s love for animals extends far beyond her front door. Through Rescue Life, her sanctuary for abused animals, Weinberger rescues, rehabilitates and finds homes for horses, donkeys, zebras and more, saving them from a life of mistreatment or untimely death.
Inspired by the tragic illegal slaughter of a beloved horse named War, which her group had rescued and rehomed, Weinberger is campaigning to establish a state-run task force to investigate and prosecute such crimes in Florida. An estimated 30,000 horses are illegally slaughtered each year, highlighting the urgency of this cause.
“We need stronger laws to punish those who commit these horrible acts of animal cruelty. Florida is the epicenter of this crisis,” she said. “I love these horses. I’ll never stop fighting for the animals that can’t fight for themselves. We are the voice for the voiceless.”
But Weinberger’s dedication goes beyond animals. Growing up with her adopted sister Louise, who had Down syndrome, Weinberger learned the power of love and compassion early on. This experience inspired her to volunteer and mentor individuals with disabilities.
Under Weinberger’s vision and management, Rescue Life collaborates with many South Florida-based organizations, serving local children, families and animals.
These collaborations include the Dreamride Experience, the Hometown Foundation, the Els Center for Excellence (providing therapy dogs) and the Aunt Florida Project’s summer camps, which open their grounds to underserved middle schoolers.
Before founding her own organization, Weinberger served as an officer and vice president on the board of Big Dog Ranch for five years, organizing numerous large-scale fundraising campaigns and events. She is also a mentor at Place of Hope and Kid Sanctuary and has held various positions on their fundraising committees.
Weinberger, who is currently running in the Republican primary for State House in District 94, has a platform that is comprehensive and impactful, from promoting sustainable farming practices to defending parental rights and fiscal responsibility. Her commitment to keeping insurance rates, gas prices and interest rates in check resonates with hardworking families across the district.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of philanthropy, Weinberger finds solace in her daily routines — whether tending to her farm, riding horses or indulging in ice plunges for a mental health boost.
As Weinberger embarks on her journey of public service, she brings with her the values, skills and knowledge that have fueled her many successes in private life.
Learn more about Meg Weinberger’s Rescue Life nonprofit at www.rescue-life.org. Learn more about her current campaign at www.megforflorida.com.
