Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary Scout Project

Hi!  My name is EJ Penney and I am a Boy Scout with Troop 316 in Phoenix, Arizona.  I am working on my Eagle Scout project and I am asking for your help with donating money for my project.  The beneficiary is the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary (PHS).  On December 12, 2020 I will be leading my scouts in building much needed enclosures for the Galapagos Tortoises and we need to raise money to  purchase materials for the construction of the habitats.  The Sanctuary is a non-profit organization and depends on the donations it receives from visitors.

PHS was founded in 2001 by three long-time, passionate reptile enthusiasts with a vision to make a difference for reptiles in the state of Arizona.  There were plenty of organizations to rescue many species of animals from dogs and cats to birds.  However, there was no such facility or refuge for unwanted or rescued reptiles. Most of the animals at the sanctuary were abandoned, abused or confiscated from individuals who possessed them illegally.  For example, Arizona law prohibits private citizens from owning alligators or crocodiles – only licensed zoos (such as PHS), certified educational facilities, or accredited rescue shelters are permitted to keep them in captivity. PHS houses these, and all the rescued reptiles, until proper placement is established. PHS makes every effort possible to locate a permanent residence for the animals, including adoption of legal pets in Arizona. However, most will remain at PHS for the rest of their natural lives.  Unfortunately for many rescued reptiles that previously lived in the wild, they cannot be released back into their native habitat.  Reptiles released into unfamiliar areas in the wild would be unable to locate food, shelter, water – the basics for survival – and are therefore forced to live the remainder of their lives in captivity.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for considering a donation to my Eagle Scout project.