My Volunteer Trip

Hello!  My name is Ellie Ingram and I am very lucky to be a first year student at Colorado State University.  I am excited to be majoring in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability.  The summer after my senior year in high school, I worked forty hours a week fundraising for the International Fund for Animal Welfare.  http://www.ifaw.org/united-states 
IFAW helps all endangered species with a focus primarily on elephants.  Working for IFAW opened my eyes to many world affairs, especially revolving around animals.  I found meaning and connection with saving elephants from the rapid poaching that they are facing.  After my summer was over, it was calculated that I had personally fundraised over $35, 000 on average every year through monthly donors I had collected for the IFAW elephant program!!!I am happy to say that I am incredibly proud of this accomplishment. Doing good for the Earth and animals has changed my life entirely.  I have never felt a stronger purpose than when supporting struggling ecosystems.  I have never been out of the country, but I have been trying to visit somewhere beyond the U.S. since I was a freshman in high school.  Due to insufficient funds I unfortunately have never been afforded the opportunity.  This program is through Reach Out Volunteers https://www.rovolunteers.com/ ,focused on wildlife conservation and community development. 

What I will be doing in Siem Reap, Cambodia:
-building & refurbishing classrooms
-building & repairing homes
-building toilet and sanitation facilities
-installing septic tank facilities
-building school playgrounds & communal areas
-assisting in English, dancing, music, sport, classes at the school
-replanting and protecting natural jungle habitat
-harvesting, preparing and replanting elephant food
general maintenance of dams, fences and sanctuary environs
-expanding sanctuary firebreak
-caring for abandoned dogs, monkeys, gibbons and geese housed at the sanctuary
-infrastructure construction
 
Start Date: December 18th
End Date: December 31st


I am so appreciative for any support given.   I want to see first hand what I am trying so hard to support and conserve.  Thank you so so so MUCH!!