Ann Wheeler (New York)

Wildlife ACT is a phenomenal organization. When I volunteered with them in 2014, I didn’t realize how much it was about to change my life. I was freshly employed at a credit union, in what is widely accepted as a good, stable job. I spent two amazing weeks in the bush at the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi reserve, which ignited my soul and reminded me what my true passion in life was. I was able to be a part of rhino lifts (look it up; it’s relocating rhinos by helicopter!!!), tracking and monitoring wild dogs, elephants, and lions, and really getting a chance to see what real, no-frills conservation is all about.

My true passion may have still been buried under the cover of a desk job if I didn’t get the great opportunity of working with the amazing people at Wildlife ACT. If anyone is ever looking for a great volunteer opportunity with a legitimate conservation organization, I would recommend them without hesitation. The work that they do isn’t just for you to have a fun experience, it’s to truly conserve wildlife through research and education.