2 people found this review helpful
PROJECT PERRY
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November 4, 2012
2 people found this review helpful
Project Perry is the most innovative and well-managed parrot sanctuary in the US. I am a proud donor and supporter. I have known Matt Smith, the Executive Director, for many years and have observed his tenacious, intelligent and steadfast efforts on behalf of parrots continue to gain momentum. He has brought attention to the plight of parrots throughout the US and the world while maintaining a state-of-the-art sanctuary with free flight aviaries built to mimic natural conditions for parrots, The volunteers at Project Perry are equally dedicated and the success of the residents program as well as the adoption program are the result of a cooperative effort of many wonderful people. The attention and care given to each bird is evident in the many stories posted on the website, included in the newsletter and garnered in conversation with others. There are a handful of remarkable parrot sanctuaries in the US, but if I have to choose one, I will choose Project Perry for the reasons already stated.
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Was your donation impactful?
Unsure
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Definitely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
November 17, 2011
For 20 years my Timneh parrot Mr. McGoo accompanied me on State Department assignments in Africa, Europe, and the U.S. He was a faithful companion whose cheery presence made every new dwelling feel immediately like home. When the time came that I could no longer keep McGoo, I scoured the Internet for a facility where he would receive excellent care for the rest of his life. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the Project Perry website, and to find that the sanctuary was located in Central Virginia, only two hours from my home, was truly miraculous. After a couple of visits and long talks with Matt Smith, the director, I decided to entrust my dear friend to Matt's care under the “Lifetime of Care” program, and I have never regretted it. "Gooey" has lived at the sanctuary for almost two years now. He is a happy and healthy member of the exuberant flock of gray parrots who occupy the main aviary, a 3,600-foot enclosure designed and built by Matt and chock full of plants and vines that mimic the birds’ natural habitat. There is even a fountain in the shape of a small waterfall, which was donated by a generous supporter and is where the parrots often enjoy a refreshing drink or a bath. During my frequent visits I have seen how my bird and others who have joined the flock after him have thrived, and I have witnessed the extraordinary dedication of Matt and his small team of volunteers as they work to rescue abused parrots, rehome them when possible, and to offer loving perpetual care for those who remain. I am here to tell you that Project Perry is an organization, and an endeavor, that is truly worthy of support.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Witnessing the care with which new rescued birds are handled, with every consideration given to their emotional as well as physical state. And, as described in detail above, I have also witnessed the happy transformation of my own parrot from a cage-bound house pet to an active member of the African Gray flock.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I cannot suggest any changes. This organization is already accomplishing more than one would think possible, given its limited funding.
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How did you find this group?
Internet search.
What, if any, change in your life has this group encouraged?
Greater interest and active participation in animal welfare and rescue.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
September 15, 2011
Project Perry is a wonderful organization that truly puts our feathered friends first. The cleanliness, diets, and special care for all is provided and much much more. I've personally volunteered at a few sanctuaries and none come close to what this one has to offer. While volunteering an African Grey named JoJo adopted me and i am lucky to have her in our family. Thank you and keep up the good work!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
The joy my adoptee has brought to our family.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I have no suggestions at this time.
August 26, 2011
When I think of Project Perry I think “Gold Standard.” That describes the level of care the birds receive as well as the level of commitment and devotion of Matt Smith, executive director, the staff, and volunteers. Matt makes sure that not only the physical needs of the birds are met but the emotional needs as well. Further, the community outreach and education has filled a long existing void of ignorance about keeping exotic birds as companions. On behalf of all these birds, I thank heaven for Matt Smith, and Project Perry.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
PP accepted a lost bird whose human companion I was unable to find. He was cared for and worked with to make it a more suitable companion; then adopted into a new home. I toured the facility and saw first-hand an incredible operation.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Not a change but an addition...recruit a fundraising volunteer.
1 person found this review helpful
August 22, 2011
1 person found this review helpful
Project Perry is an amazing organization. Several years ago, we learned through the grapevine of a wonderful African Grey parrot who was in a tough situation and needed a new home. We took him in rather spontaneously; however, we quickly realized we were in over our heads and that we couldn't keep him--we hadn't really wanted to add a parrot to our household full of cats and things really weren't working out very well for him or for us. We searched the Internet and found several parrot adoption and rescue organizations in our area (Pennsylvania), but then we also read about Project Perry. They stood out above and beyond all of the rest, so we put them at the top of our list. After several emails and a visit down to Virginia to check the place out, we fell in love with Project Perry! Their facility is beautiful--very clean, cheerful, and open. The birds that stay in the house spend the majority of their time out of their cages, and there are also several large aviaries to allow free flight. They feed fresh fruits and vegetables, and the place is absolutely spotless. The staff is cheerful and clearly love to be there. It is truly a first-class sanctuary for these amazing creatures. We both knew immediately that this was the place for our African Grey, and they took him in without reservation. They immediately made us feel welcome and at home. They were nonjudgemental and understanding of our inability to keep this parrot, and they promised us that they would do everything in their power to find him an excellent home--and they did! This beautiful parrot was adopted and is happily living in a wonderful home with another parrot (also adopted from Project Perry). Director Matt Smith and his staff are extremely knowledgeable about not just what it takes to keep these exotic and social animals healthy but also what it takes to make their very long lives worth living for them. The organization also works to stop bird mills and illegal transport of parrots and to educate the public about all of the issues that parrots and other exotic birds face. I can honestly say that I have absolute trust and faith in this organization as a safe haven for animals. I recommend them without reservation. Thank you, Project Perry.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
they took in our African Grey Parrot and found him a wonderful home. They work hard to find good homes for parrots and also to educate the public about all of the difficult issues facing these animals.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
not change a thing, except to give them more money so that they could do even more to help the cause of exotic birds in captivity.
August 19, 2011
My African Greys saw pictures of Matt's grey aviary and started to pack. This is truly the most natural and spacious environment I have ever seen provided for this ever increasing species of often abused and neglected parrots. His undaunted wilingness to save so many is only surpassed by the need for it. Thanks Matt and staff for such an unselfish gift to the winged wild creatures that someone thought would be a good idea to cage.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
the coninuous online feedback and updated photos of this sanctuary.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Only thing this organization needs is more of them and their staff.
August 16, 2011
I cannot imagine a bird getting any better can than the birds at Project Perry do. Matt and his volunteers not only understand birds, but each individual bird that comes to them. The facility is wonderful- birds are allowed to be birds here.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I've seen before and after pictures of birds who've come to Project Perry and heard many of their stories. The ones who come here are very, very lucky.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I wish human greed, cruelty and neglect had not created the need for a haven for mistreated birds. I'm glad Project Perry exists, and I wouldn't change anythig about it.
August 16, 2011
The high standards of care at Project Perry exceeded my expectations when I first visited a few years back, and it's only gotten better! Matt and all of the volunteers work hard to give the parrots there the best life possible. From the tiniest finch to the largest macaw, every bird that comes to the sanctuary is treated with the utmost care. I can't say enough about the amazing work going on at Project Perry.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I've been involved with the sanctuary since 2007.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
love to see more funding for future projects. Matt has great ideas & the dedication to see them through.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
August 15, 2011
No one is more dedicated to enriching the lives of abused parrots than Matt Smith. His tireless efforts give last-chance parrots an opportunity to live out their lives among their own kind, with some semblance of the life they were really born to live.
It's wonderful to know that, at last, some abused birds have good food, clean water, room to spread their wings and companions to play with.
Thanks Matt.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Visiting and becoming a foster parent for an abused amazon.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Give them more money. Birds need homes and Matt is a fine steward of all that is given to him,
More feedback...
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
Likely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Some
August 15, 2011
Matt is a huge parrott lover and it shows with his home and care of these wonderful birds. When he first started out he kept the majority of birds in his home-even his bedroom. As he grew he was able to design and build a beautiful African Grey enclosure and has plans for more. He is such a dedicated bird lover. My two birds are in my will to him. That is how much I trust and admire him. This bird sanctuary is one of the best within miles. He is always in need of help, both as volunteers and with contributions.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
They have boarded my 2 birds and I have volunteered there.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Just to give him more money so he can help even more birds.
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