Photo: Born Free USAI recently had the opportunity to visit the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. The last time I was there was May of 2010, shortly before I moved away from Texas to Washington, D.C. to begin a new job with Born Free USA. As Director of Development these last seven years, I have told you the monkeys’ stories and asked for your help to care for them, and I was able to see with my own eyes what you have done in that time.[teaserbreak]
Since 2010, we have taken in 107 monkeys from the defunct Wild Animal Orphanage. Nearly overnight, our resident population went from 500 to more than 600 animals. We have the American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS), the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS), the Meadows Foundation, and countless individual donors to thank for making that huge rescue possible. We have also been able to say “yes” to nine baboons who were being retired from research, and 14 macaques from another laboratory, plus several other former “pets” and former research subjects who have found a second chance at the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. Each and every time, AAVS, NAVS, and many of our supporters stepped up to help.
It was incredibly rewarding to see these animals in their new homes—wonderful, spacious new enclosures, built with the funds from our generous supporters. I saw monkeys who had never before known companionship grooming with their new friends; monkeys who had spent years in tiny cages enjoying the sunshine, open spaces, some perched high up in trees. As odd as it may seem, it was joyful to see a monkey posturing to protect her space and her mates, telling me to go away. That is her home, not mine. I’m the intruder, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
In a small way, I wish that all of our donors could witness what a difference they make for these innocent animals, but because we respect the animals’ needs, we aren’t open to the public; we never will be. Thousands of generous people like you will never see first-hand what you have accomplished, yet you put your trust in us. You give your hard-earned money—whether $10, $100, or $10,000—to save the lives of animals you will never see in person. This is profoundly humbling and makes me ever-the-more grateful for your support.
Thank you for your compassion toward these innocent animals who need help, and thank you for donating to help us care for them. Most importantly, thank you for putting your faith in Born Free USA. The monkeys’ freedom from former abuses is due entirely to you.
Keep Wildlife in the Wild,
