VOLUNTEER WORK WITH ASIAN ELEPHANTS

Thank you so much for coming to my GoFundMe page and considering donating. 

Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center, a project of Save Elephant Foundation in Northern Thailand. They have been involved in numerous rescues and the sanctuary now provides a home for many elephants.

The plight of the Asian elephant is very devastating. For many it is a life of abuse, neglect, exploitation and starvation. Unfortunately much of it being fueled by the tourist industry. Many of the elephants come from the circus, entertainment industry, trekking camps, street begging, and logging. These elephants arrive at the sanctuary with all sorts of medical and mental issues from the abuse they have endured their entire lives. Many have scars, physical injuries, broken hips, are blind, traumatized and have been chained their entire lives having never experienced freedom. Elephant Nature Park is trying to change the lives of those that they can.

 Elephant Nature Park serves as both a sanctuary for elephants and a place to educate tourists, locals and animal lovers alike. 

In November 2017 I had my first opportunity to travel to the sanctuary and volunteer for 3 weeks. After returning home I was so inspired and motivated to do more that I returned this past March/April for another 5 weeks.

During my stay I learned what it takes to care for these amazing creatures. Everyday I helped with the day to day chores of the elephants. From preparing food, feeding them, walking, swimming, washing, enrichment, cleaning poop, assisting with medical treatments and maintaining the overall happiness of these elephants. 

Although highly rewarding, rescuing elephants is no easy job. The people at the sanctuary work tirelessly to care for these animals. 

My goal is to return to the sanctuary in July and stay long term to help care for these rescued elephants. The funds raised will be used for my flights, supplies, medical insurance, food, travel and living expenses. Any funds raised above and beyond the goal will be used to extend my stay at the sanctuary, volunteer at another elephant project or donated to the elephant sanctuary. 

Please know how much I appreciate your support for my journey, and know that these elephants will receive the best love and care because of your generosity. 

Thank you for taking the time to visit my GoFundMe page and contributing to help me help these amazing creatures.  

Melissa