HELP END ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST URGENT WILDLIFE CRISES, HELP ROCKWOOD SAVE THE SOUTHERN WHITE RHINO.
It's no longer something in the distant future - it's officially happening. Nature is declining globally at previously unimagined rates. One million species are careering toward extinction. We are only at the start of Earth's sixth mass extinction. But it's not too late.
The UN's recent biodiversity report says if we commit to change on all levels, nature can still be conserved, restored and used sustainably.
So, what can you do to make a change? How can you help end one of Africa's most urgent wildlife crises? How do you help save the southern white rhino? It doesn't mean you have to donate money. One of the best ways to become an active philanthropist and contribute to real change in the world is to volunteer your time. Like many other species, Africa's rhinos are heading rapidly towards extinction, and it's going to take more than money if we're going to save them. They need your help.
“It is every man's obligation to put back into the world at least the equivalent of what he takes out of it." ―Albert Einstein"
The plight of Africa's rhinos
Every day an average of three rhinos are killed in South Africa by illegal poachers who fuel Asia's insatiable demand for rhino horn. Approximately 1000 rhinos die in South Africa alone every year. If we don't stop this, we will see the last wild rhinos on Earth disappear in this lifetime.
The world is struggling to convince Asian consumers that rhino horn, which is made of keratin like your fingernails, has no medicinal or status value whatsoever. But one man refuses to give up. Despite facing the constant danger of poachers, Wicus Diedericks is doing whatever he can to conserve a small population of Africa's last remaining wild rhinos.
With his 'aggressive conservation' method, he has brought more than 100 rhino calves into the world and, currently protects over 300 Southern White rhinos at Rockwood. But he can't do it alone.
How can you help?
The rhino project at Rockwood has become so successful that Wicus and his team can no longer do it alone and need help. With so many rhinos to care for, plus the general running of the facility, extra hands are needed desperately. Just like it takes a village to raise a child, it will take the world to protect rhinos.
Rockwood is calling on you, the global philanthropist, to volunteer your time and help save the rhino from extinction. By volunteering at Rockwood, you will gain invaluable life experience. Plus, earn the personal reward of being involved in one of the most critical rhino conservation projects in South Africa.
Your daily volunteer routine includes:
- Feeding rhinos and other animals
- Monitor rhino health with rangers
- Upkeep of rhino camps
- Assist in data collection
- Assist vets
- Provide care for orphaned animals
- Check and maintain camera traps
- Clean and maintain horse stables
- Feed and care for horses
- Grooming and working with foals
- Check and maintain fences and gates
- Provide care and attention for any orphaned or injured animals in our care
Other volunteer activities include:
- Learn to ride horses and join Rockwood's rangers in monitoring rhinos on horseback
- Take part in electronic chipping and collecting samples
- Develop activities and lessons for local schools and community engagement
- Photograph and write about events and experiences at Rockwood
- Help capture data onto research database
- At Rockwood, you will get to experience hands-on conservation efforts and be part of making a real difference. So, break out of your comfort zone, live life, embrace your passions and volunteer in Africa.
Become a philanthropist, volunteer your time.
Rockwood welcomes anyone interested in helping conserve the rhino species. Our doors are open to those who are willing to make a real change, from philanthropists to researchers and conservations. Read more, here.
DONATE TO HELP SAVE AFRICA'S MOST VULNERABLE WILDLIFE
On average one rhino is poached every 8 hours in Africa. Which is why we at Rockwood are doing everything we can to save the species from extinction. But looking after over 300 rhinos is no small feat. We need your help.
Give Your Time & Get Involved
MEET OUR RHINOS FACE-TO-FACE
*Please note, saving the rhino is an expensive undertaking, that’s why participating in projects is subjected to a registration and participation fee. It’s one of the ways we generate funds to keep doing what we do.