Causes: Animals, Children & Youth, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Youth Development, Zoos & Aquariums

Mission: We exist to provide refuge to displaced, captive-raised exotic animals for the rest of their lives and to educate people about responsible animal care and conservation.

Results: Approximately 19,000 people tour the sanctuary annually to observe and learn about the animal residents, bear witness to their recoveries from neglect, abuse, and exploitation, and to support the mission to advocate for better protections for captive animals and public safety. Over 250 animals have been provide refuge to date (2018). More than 150 college-enrolled and post-grad students have participated in the internship program, many of whom have gone on to gainful employment in animal care and veterinary medicine. Local advocacy and education efforts have swayed venues from hiring traveling animal "acts"; better local ordinances have been adopted; the community has embraced the organization as an "expert" to weigh in on decisions that may affect the welfare of captive wild/exotic animals or threaten public safety.

Target demographics: captive exotic animals and people

Direct beneficiaries per year: 19,000 people and nearly 100 animals

Geographic areas served: Nationwide

Programs: Permanent refuge for displaced, captive-raised exotic animalsSanctuary toursInternship programVolunteer programField tripsOutreach programsAdvocacy for animal welfare and public safety