The sheldrick trust

The Sheldrick Trust has been in operation for 45 years, led and run by a family passionate about Africa and its diverse wildlife. They protect a myriad of species of wildlife as well as entire conservation areas. Originally founded by Daphne Sheldrick who had a passion, love and respect of elephants, but also cherished other animals that are native to Africa. Daphne worked diligently to come up with the proper formula for elephant milk and also worked tirelessly to develop systems that would both save and protect the diverse species that make up this African ecosystem. 

Probably their biggest and most well known part of their organization is their work they do with elephants. They have rescued countless elephants, so many of those being orphaned babies either from human conflict such as snares or spears, or natural threats such as hyena attacks or draught. 

There are many ways that you can help. You can adopt an animal, which is what I did! For as little as a one time donation of $50, you can help a baby elephant be integrated back into the wild, an amazing and gratifying experience. I myself adopted Bondeni, a tiny orphan that had been wandering alone for days! This is truly an amazing experience, one that I will continue to do. 

There are opportunities to visit the area as well! They open their doors to visitors to educate them about how they work as well as how to protect the animals. Visiting hours are limited though and require advanced bookings only. Visiting information can be found here: https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/faqs#visiting You can also stay at their eco lodge or at one of their breathtaking nature camps. This is an experience I myself hope to be lucky enough to have and will work at making my way to East Africa in the near future.

I highly recommend checking them out! They do amazing, inspiring and important work that I hope they are able to keep up!!