The Elephant Sanctuary began as a place of refuge to retired circus and zoo elephants.  It currently houses both Asian and African elephants, with habitats that have been constructed to cater to the needs of each.  The land upon which the sanctuary has been built was acquired from the International Paper Company;  in addition to providing a haven for elephants in need, the land is also being rehabed to repair the detrimental effects caused by years of clear-cutting. 


While the sanctuary is closed to the general public, VIP donors can visit the sanctuary and get a behind-the-scenes look at sanctuary life.  Also, as an alternative, you can contact the sanctuary to sign up for a "Volunteer Day", to help with maintenance tasks around the facility that will directly benefit the elephants.  While seeing an elephant during volunteer events is not the focus and is highly unlikely (although you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse), the efforts directly impact the elephants in a positive way and make a tremendous, compassionate difference.  If you can't make it out for a volunteer day, consider browsing the sanctuary's wish list to see if there is a need you may be able to fill. 

It's heartwrenching to think that these animals have lived a hard life on the road in a circus, or in the small confines of a zoo, but it's uplifting to know that such a wonderful plan has come to fruition and that the dream of a place for these animals to find tranquility and freedom of existence has been realized - vpo