Center For Great Apes

The Center for Great Apes is an amazing place. The grounds are beautiful. The staff are so kind and committed. The Founder has dedicated most of her life to caring for the apes and running this incredible sanctuary. This is a fantastic place to live out your life as an ape. I am a very happy donor and a grateful volunteer.

Our daughter Elizabeth is a caregiver at CGA and has shared with us her life and work on the sanctuary.
Liz has a great passion for the protection of all animals and had the opportunity at CGA to develop lasting relationships with her co-workers and the apes Oopsie is my favorite. Brooks & Kenzy are favorites as well. We've visited the sanctuary several times and Bubbles has shown a recognition for my husband by getting mouths full of water and biding his time to perfectly hit his mark in his face. At every visit! Grateful for the opportunity to see, learn and help CGA to thrive.

Discovering the Center for Great Apes has completely changed my worldview and enriched my life. When my 5 year old son developed an affinity for apes, especially orangutans, I was curious if there were any ape sanctuaries we could visit. When I found the Center for Great Apes, I was shocked to learn it was the only one of its kind in all of North America! While we haven't yet had the chance to visit CGA in person, just reading about the apes' stories, viewing photos, and watching videos has been an invaluable learning experience for both my son and me. CGA's mission to not just care for their residents, but fiercely advocate for them as well is highly commendable. I was aware of the endangered status of apes in the wild, but I had no idea about the horrid conditions apes have been subjected to in the entertainment industry, attractions, and scientific research. Reading the stories of these magnificent beings and seeing how they're thriving at CGA's world-class sanctuary has touched my heart deeply, and has ignited a passion in me for these treasured members of our human family. I can't wait to meet them in person one day, and I know my son (who was delighted to send the apes a box of prunes via their Amazon wish list) feels the same. CGA is bringing its message of empathy and conservation to multiple generations, and deserves all the support they can get in fighting this fight. It's never been a more critical time.

I was elated when I discovered The Center for the Grate Apes! I immediately became a member and started going on the tours and the educational events. The chimpanzees and orangutans are so well cared for, every staff member I meet was kind and respectful of the apes and their intelligence, always keeping their best interest in mind. Their stories are sometimes heartbreaking, and it makes all the difference that they had a wonderful place like this to go and “retire”. Thank you for all you do for these amazing and incredibly intelligent animals!

I was honored to take a tour with a group I used to work with at the Center for Great Apes. An absolutely amazing place. They have a passionate and caring staff and, of course, the apes are beautiful and fun to watch.

The Center for Great Apes is an amazing place! I’ve been volunteering and supporting the Center for five years, ever since I first became aware of its existence and the wonderful work they do there. Every one on staff and the volunteers are dedicated to giving these beautiful apes the best of care and ensuring they are able to live their best lives. The grounds are beautiful and I feel thankful every time I come to ‘work’ that I have this opportunity!

I have been a member for over 15 years. This is the most beautiful sanctuary in terms of ultimate design for the apes to move safely through cage tunnels and 30 foot high play domes. The caretakers love and care for these precious souls in the most passionate way. Each individual ape is compassionately cared for and treated as the unique beings they are.

Hi, my name is Susan Feeley and I live in Sydney,Australia. I have been a supporter of CGA since 2020 when Sha Sha Chimpanzee, whom I had supported at the Wildlife Waystation since 2012, closed on 2019. CGA has provided a safe and forever home to Sha Sha and many of the other WWS chimpanzees since its closure . It is so gratifying to know that Sha Sha is loved and cared for and enjoys the good life at CGA. Of course CGA provides shelter to so many of it's residents, no small achievement as it is a non profit sanctuary. I have found the staff and caregivers helpful and can rest assured that the very best care is constantly provided. I just wish I didn't live so far away as I would love to visit CGA. They are simply wonderful.

I've been following Center for Great Apes for years and have been privileged to visit several times. I knew it was good, but the first time I visited I was completely blown away by the excellence that CGA exemplifies. It is a world class sanctuary and in every area of operation it serves as an example for all others to follow. Patti, being the keen business woman that she is, has applied her expertise and love of these individuals to create the best quality of life possible for animals that can't be released into the wild. She has assembled a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Patti is always looking to the future, planning for what is to come and is always generous in helping however she can. She has a heart of gold and these lucky Chimps and Orangutans are the beneficiaries. I know every dollar I donate is being carefully spent which makes my heart full, knowing who I'm helping and that they are being so wonderfully cared for.

Center for Great Apes is all about the apes. I have been a donor for ten years and "adoptive parent" to chimpanzee Kenya, one of the original residents. I have enjoyed several visits to the facility and am so impressed that everything about the place is geared to allowing the animals to live as natural an ape life as possible. The miles of overhead trailways give the apes freedom and variety in their daily lives.

I have not been able to visit the Center in person, but I love orangutans and when searching for a way to help them, I came across this place. I also have contributed to Orangutan Foundation. Orangutans are in so much trouble in the wild with their homes being taken away to produce palm oil. Anyway, since I donated to Center for Great Apes, the people there have sent thank you letters, photos, and posted wonderful stories and photos on their website. Three orangs are named the same as me and my siblings! If you are in Florida, I highly recommend you visit the Center. It looks fun and educational for any animal lover.

I have been a volunteer for over 25 years and a board member for more than 10 years. I would not have dedicated all the time to an organization if it wasn't one of the highest caliber. The care provided to the chimpanzees and orangutans is of the highest quality and the facilities are unlike any other. Zoos and other sanctuaries have copied the Center's aerial trailways that allow the apes to explore the grounds and be moved effortlessly. The organizations attention to fiscal responsibility is equivalent to their high quality of care for the apes. Overall, this one one amazing organization that I am honored to be a part of.

I've been a donor for a couple of years now and finally got a chance to visit the sanctuary last year. It was a delightful experience! The staff was so kind and welcoming. The apes were adorable and were obviously comfortable and well-cared for. Because I sponsor an ape I was able to have a few minutes with her and her caregiver. They gave me a demonstration of the words she knows so that she can get vet care. Everything about our visit was inspiring. Definitely visit this place if you get a chance and donate to help these sweet apes!

I was a zookeeper working with great apes for over 3 decades. I have been on CGA's board of advisors since 1994, and I moved next door to the Center when I retired in 2006. I have been involved in many aspects of Center life and I can definitely say that no ape receives better care than those at this sanctuary. Caregivers abandoned their own homes to spend "hurricane night" with the apes, insuring that no one was afraid and all comforts were provided. I'm grateful that the Center is so well prepared in advance of these climactic catastrophes. Back-up generators were purchased a few years ago to be sure that fresh produce continues to be available for healthy meals. A well-equipped clinic is on grounds for any medical needs. Several staff live nearby to be available 24/7 in case of emergency! No place is better than CGA!

The Center for Great Apes is the most organized and well run sanctuary for the preservation and continued care of primates. Many of the chimpanzees and orangutans have come from projects, owners or entertainment venues which were less than humane or effective in their care .
CGA gives physical, nutritional and mental enrichment to each of its residents.
Donations are efficiently applied to this beautiful facility.
Administrators and volunteer personnel are experienced and expertly trained.
Owing to a long history of quality care and management, I recommend The Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida for all appropriate donations and gifts.

Good work!!! the animals are cared for with attention and love much and we as followers are treated with a post daily.

I have volunteered at the Center for Great Apes in the past. I only stopped because of other committments and living 50 miles away. I can't imagine a better sanctuary. All the staff and volunteers are deeply committed to the care of all the chimpanzes and orangutans. They also seek to keep these apes "entertained" with a large variety of enrichment. They also keep volunteers and members informed and engaged with updates on the apes. This center is a blessing.

These faces, those eyes, so much wisdom and emotion. I dare you to come see for yourself. (You won't be sorry)

The first time I came to the sanctuary I watched a video of some of the apes and their stories: what happened when they got too big and strong to be used in entertainment or to be kept as private exotic pets, some were forced to live years in small roadside attractions or in small garage/basement cages. Some of the females were sent to breeder facilities and some came from research facilities.
After the video we went on grounds and were able to see the spacious enclosures and the sky chutes where these arboreal animals had passage through the trees and had planned interactions with others of their own species. Caregivers told us of the apes' diets and the enrichment activities that keep the apes engaged. At the Center for Great Apes, the orangutan and chimpanzee residents were not forced to do anything they did not want to do.
These apes that had come from entertainment or who had been raised by humans could not go to zoos or be released in the wild...Patti Ragan built the sanctuary and continues to expand and care for apes that have nowhere else to go. When I had my first visit, there were forty-eight residents. Now there are sixty-eight residents, each with their own personalities and needs. Every time I visit CGA, I am always impressed with the care and devotion that each of these residents receives. I felt a desire to be a part of this magnificent vision and became a volunteer!

I want to cry every time I visit the Center fir Great Apes - I cry for what these beautiful creatures have gone through in their lives before being saved by CGA. I cry with joy to see how beautiful their lives have become, with healthy foods, safe places to nest, groups to socialize with, loving caretakers and volunteer. I cry with gratitude for the gigantic heart and hard work of founder, Paiit Ragan. I watch her interact with her "kids" and see the love and dedication she has. I wish all the world had the opportunity to see this magnificent place and open their hearts and purse strings to support my favorite place on earth

I love to see the beautiful ladies and gentleman on my book page and don’t forget the beautiful babies love them all

My family has always been animal lovers. My daughter works at the Center for Great Apes, and it has become her dream job! She's use to cats and dogs, but these magnificent creatures are truly awe inspiring, just watching, caring and getting to know them on such a personal level! I had the honor and privilege to visit on one of their member days, it was a sight to see! I can't wait to go back! Thanks to all the folks who tend to these beautiful beings! God bless you all!

I’ve been a supporter of CGA for over 10 years now as a volunteer and donor. They are an incredible organization that tirelessly, thoughtfully and compassionately helps chimpanzees and orangutans in great need of sanctuary. They leverage their monetary & volunteer resources efficiently & effectively to maximize efforts towards their mission. They are so deserving of support and you can be assured money & time will be wisely used.

I had the privilege of visiting this AMAZING sanctuary 2 times this spring. All of the staff and volunteers were very accommodating and caring for the Apes. Patti Ragan has provided a quality life for these Apes and my full support. ❤️ ������

Have been in conversations with staff. Plan to go visit soon. Fabulous program. Happy to support this group of hard working people doing good.

My husband and I volunteer at the Center for Great Apes from time to time and have been members for 10 years. We believe in its mission as a sanctuary for orangutans and chimpanzees who started their lives in less than ideal circumstances. Once we learned about their individual lives before the Center, we just want to do as much as we can to help them. As our only Christmas present to each other, we sponsor an adoption of handsome chimpanzee Murray, which is our family name. The Center offers public tours of the sanctuary several times a year, so that others can learn more about and get excited about helping these magnificent beings.

Enter the gate at Center for Great Apes and step into another world. You'll find dense vegetation, night houses, large outdoor enclosures and miles of aerial trailway designed specifically for the Chimpanzees and Orangutans who call CGA their forever home. Staff and volunteers work quietly in the background while Orangutans swing on fire hoses, long-call, eat lunch while bird and butterfly watching; the Chimpanzees play chase, groom one another and snooze in hammocks after snack time. Those of us who volunteer come to understand that the Center provides quality healthcare, proper nutrition, safe, clean environments and a myriad of enrichment opportunities suited for each ape's needs and wants. Retired captive great apes should be shown respect and allowed to live their lives with dignity. The Center for Great Apes gets it right!

My husband and I have been members of CGA for many years. One of the greatest functions of CGA is that they always put the care and life of the apes first. The facility is beautiful as well as functional. I remember the first time I visited the Center and how awed I was at the entire facility. We have been back many time for the member days and have seen the growth and total dedication of all the staff and volunteers.

Joyce & Stuart Best

As a passionate animal lover and great ape enthusiast I look for opportunities that allow me to be of service. After following The Center for Great Apes (CGA) efforts for some time, I joined as a member. The second I stepped through the gates in what could only be described as the “Garden of Eden” I was in awe! I knew I wanted to do more & am so lucky to have been given the opportunity to serve as a volunteer. Every month for the past three years I have travelled from New Jersey to Wachula, Florida, to be a part of and witness firsthand the important work that they do.

CGA is truly an incredible organization that provides permanent sanctuary for orangutans and chimpanzees who have been retired from different backgrounds. From its creation in 1993 CGA has been providing a safe, loving, healthy and enriching environment ensuring that their fifty-two residents’ lives are joyful, fun and above all as natural as possible!

I have been privileged to work alongside some of the most selfless and dedicated caregivers, office staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide individualized enrichment programs, nutrition plans and rehabilitation for each ape.

In my role as a volunteer, I have been fortunate to take part in producing enrichment materials, preparing meals, cleaning enclosures, supporting fundraising efforts, celebrating special occasions and so much more.

This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and with continued support, I have no doubt that CGA will continue to enrich the lives of Orangutans and Chimpanzees for as long as there is the need.

Much love to the CGA family! Thank you for all that you do!

Xo
Cindy Villari ������

Where else can you tell an orangutan that you are going to have to tell on her to a caregiver?
Although caring for orangutans and chimpanzees in need may not be high on everyone's priority list, for the dedicated volunteers at the Center for Great Apes, it is. Volunteers have no direct contact with any of the apes; we do, however, get to interact and form relationships with these amazing beings. Whether volunteers are hosing down night houses or preparing the next day's meals for the apes, whether covered in perspiration or relatively cool in the air-conditioned nutrition center, volunteers, like the caregivers, will beam and say "Fantastic! I'm visiting with my ape buddies" when asked how they are doing.
I personally have never worked in an organization where staff are thrilled to be at work; no matter how hard their jobs in the Florida heat and humidity, caregivers at the Center for Great Apes do seem thrilled to be caring for the well-being of our fantastic relatives.
Volunteers travel from around the world to spend time at the center and happily "give up" their vacations to work hard helping out; some have moved to be nearby (I did!). The center has a place for volunteers of all abilities and skill sets. If you are happy working with others, there is a job for you; if you enjoy teaching, there's a place for you; if you prefer to work alone, there is something for you too.
The first time I visited the center, I felt that I had come home; after several years of volunteering, I still do, every time I volunteer. It is my sanctuary, as it is for many of the other volunteers.
In response to the question I asked earlier, I noticed that orangutan Geri was chewing something that I thought she was not supposed to eat. So, after warning her, I did tell her caregiver; turns out, everything was fine. But I was thanked for being concerned. And that made me feel wonderful.

I have been involved with the Center For Great Apes for a decade now. I've had the good fortune to visit the Sanctuary on Open House days, and see first hand the important work they do. You will not find more dedicated staff anywhere - they put the Apes first! The Center not only provides good nutrition and health care to the animals in their care, but they also make sure the Apes have enrichment, which is incredibly important for their well being. I also like that the Center involves the people who donate to the care. They have Adoptions of your favorite great ape (or in my case, several!) for the year, updates on goings-on at the Center. At member levels, one can arrange a private tour of the sanctuary. The staff is always ready to talk with the public and engage them. Patti Ragan should be so proud of the Sanctuary she created. I have been honored to spend time with not only the Great Apes, who call the Sanctuary home, but with the remarkable staff. My sister and I loved Sponsoring Christopher and Mari's birthday parties last year. The parties that they throw for enrichment for the apes fortunately can be seen on Facebook posts. I love visiting the Center from NYC and it is always a highlight of my year. It's pretty obvious I think the world of the Center for Great Apes. Every Sanctuary should model themselves after this amazing sanctuary!

One of the greatest places to volunteer at. The apes are amazing, the staff are like my second family and Patti’s the absolute best! I believe in the centers mission and they provide the absolute best care to each individual ape that live at the center. I’ve been volunteering there for the last 5 years.

I have been to CGA and am blown away by the love and care the chimps and orangutans receive. The needs of each individual ape is met with meticulous care and dedication from the staff; creating stimulation each day, meals tailored to each ape's likes and nutritional needs, comfortable and clean indoor nighthouses, clean and enriching outdoor housing, chutes that allow each ape to roam and check out the neighbors. Most important, the chimps and orangutans are living in a family setting with other apes they get along with. I cannot say enough about the wonderful staff. CGA's apes are living out their lives the best they can other than in the wild. They have a life at CGA of family, fun, enrichment, healthcare and comfort.
God bless Patti and all the caregivers and please consider supporting this wonderful sanctuary. All the chimpanzees and orangutans living at CGA have a heartbreaking backstory that led them to CGA. Now they are living in dignity and are free of fear and receive an abundance of love. We all owe it to them to support this incredible sanctuary!

A much needed and well planned and run facility that takes in great apes in need. I’ve known about the work this non-profit does for many years and have followed their work closely. This facility is a pioneer in the modern approach to animal sanctuaries. The staff is professional and well trained. The facility has a very up to date medical facility as well as a nutrition center where meals are prepared for each individual animal living there. They are also founding members of NAPSA-The North American Primate Sanctuary Alliance. The Center for Great Apes provides lifelong care for all of their resident chimpanzees and Orangutans.

I've been visiting The Center for about five years. Each time I visit I feel like I am going home to visit old friends. It is a fabulous sanctuary. The ape lives' they have saved, the stories. I promise, if you visit, you will be moved to tears. But its all good. The apes have forever, wonderful homes with wonderful volunteers caring for them.

The Center for Great Apes is truly a sanctuary....not open to the public (although they have a robust education/intern program & are open to visits from school/university/church/senior groups), does not breed or sell great apes, provides large living spaces, good nutrition and enrichment. This past summer there was a critical health issue with one of the adult male orangutans and 24 hour care was required to ensure his post surgical recovery - this went on for many weeks. The volunteers who drove many miles and stayed for hours on end at his side are a testament to the compassion the Center inspires. Patti Ragan, the founder and executive director walks the walk and spent most nights in the clinic just outside the orangutan's enclosure. Thankfully, the orangutan is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery. I am honored to serve on the Center's board and look forward to many years of service to a truly worthwhile organization.

I was totally amazed when I visited the Center for Great Apes two years ago. The facilities for these animals, which mostly did not have happy lives before going there, are incredible. They have space to play, get to know each other, and walk around to explore. Some arrived in terrible condition, but they were nurtured and nursed back to health and happiness. Patti Ragan, her staff, and their volunteers are to be commended for their steadfast efforts to make the lives of these primates the best they can possibly be.

Wow! When I was invited to visit the Center I knew I was in for a special day but my expectations were far exceeded. As an animal lover I was excited to see beautiful creatures in a loving environment. It is a home filled with boundless love, heartfelt care, the sincere effort in keeping the animals interested and entertained while maintaining the health and safety of all involved, animals and humans alike. Volunteering here is a privilege and an honor. Supporting the Center for Great Apes is a act of love.

Amazing group! Animals are we all and life is an art form. These understand this and live it.

Great organization comprising of a wonderful group of individuals that try their best to rescue primates and ensure that they have a happy and fulfilling life.

Simply reading of the dedication of so many professionals and volunteers, ( especially in the recent health emergencies, and long recovery time of BamBam ), tells me that the Center For Great Apes is well deserving of a title of "A Great Non- Profit Charity".
I only wish, that those destroying the lives and habitats of these magnificent creatures, would suddenly realise how much damage they are doing to every one's future.

I have visited Center Fro Great Apes numerous times. The habitats for the animals are amazing. The animals appear to be very happy and healthy. It is obvious that the needs of the animals comes first. As a guide takes you around to see the animals they educate the guests on the plight of these animals both in the wild and in captivity. They show you ways that you can help. To sum it up this is a wonderful sanctuary that is promoting conservation as well as compassion for animals.

Spent a day volunteering and signed up to receive emails after. The mission fills a gap in the non-profit community. The facilities are wonderful; they provide a beautiful home with lots of space for the great apes and continue to build. On top of it they are efficient with volunteers and make sure they communicate with them so awareness for their cause continues to spread. I'm always impressed with their monthly newsletters.

I was lucky enough to spend a day volunteering on the grounds with Animal Warriors recently.
I was very impressed with the dedication of volunteers and staff, as well as by the amazing enclosures, their safety procedures, and amazing care of the apes.

This organization is wonderful and I follow then on Facebook, watching their enrichment and celebration of the apes in their care.

Big Cat Rescue's volunteers have been visiting the Center for Great Apes for many years as private guests of the sanctuary, but I had never been until recently. As someone who operates a sanctuary for 100+ lions, tigers and other big cats, I know how hard it is to provide both a secure environment and one that is as natural as possible for the inhabitants. The Center for Great Apes has managed to do exactly that and I just love the tunnel system that gives the animals freedom to move about the grounds. If I had visited the Center for Great Apes earlier I would have instituted a similar tunnel system for the cats long ago.

While I have limited knowledge of this species, I co-manage a large accredited sanctuary for big cats and have some knowledge of what a good sanctuary looks like. I have visited Center for Great Apes a number of times and each time I am more impressed with the incredible job the do of giving a wonderful home to these animals who were so mistreated before being taken in here.

I will never forget the Saturday morning in 2002 I received a call from a friend whose husband is on the board for the Center for Great Apes (CGA). I honestly had never heard of them, or knew that they were a scant mile from my home!! But that changed quickly - and for the better! As a physical therapist, I was told by my friend, the CGA could use my help with a new chimpanzee they had just taken in who had developmental delays. I was both intrigued and nervous about possibly working with such a special "patient". After speaking with Patti Ragan, director of the CGA, and setting up a time to meet I was ecstatic! And then I met Knuckles...who promptly stole my heart. Over the next few months I volunteered at the CGA working with many others to help Knuckles to achieve the most normal function of a chimpanzee possible and came to love the people, the apes, and the mission of the CGA!! They are beyond a doubt one of the best organizations I have had the privilege to be associated with!

I've only been there once, but what an experience. They do a wonderful job taking care of their animals. Everything is well taken care of, from the enclosures to the animals. I donate to them when I can, as I know they do great work.

I had an opportunity to visit the Center For Great Apes. I was apprehensive, as I have been to other "shelters" in the past and they left me with a troubled heart. The facilities of these other locations were substandard, the animals were lethargic or manic. NOT CENTER FOR GREAT APES!!!! I was so impressed by the actual look and condition of the facilities; imaginative, clean, an extremely pleasant atmosphere. The apes were alert, engaged and obviously content. All the staff and the volunteers that I had the pleasure to speak with, were very committed and compassionate. I cannot imagine a better facilty. I left with a very good feeling in my heart.

The Center for Great Apes has provided a permanent home for orangutans and chimpanzees who have been rescued or retired from the entertainment industry, from research, or who are no longer wanted as pets for the past 20 years. Founder Patti Ragan, along with her staff, provide the best life possible for these beautiful and highly intelligent animals in a beautiful natural habitat. The Center is an organization which relies on private donations. At every chance I try to let more people become aware of all the excellent work and care that is being given to these great apes. Hopefully more people donate will donate to keep this sanctuary going. I am proud to say I am one of those contributors.

I found out about this amazing sanctuary for orangutans and chimpanzees through my daughter. I was absolutely blown away by the level of care that is given to these magnificent and intelligent great apes- it is exceptional. To see these animals, most of whom have been abused and mistreated, flourish with loving care restores my faith in humanity. If I lived closer I would be a volunteer in a heartbeat. This nonprofit should ALWAYS be listed as a GREAT Nonprofit- kudos to Patti Ragan and the dedicated staff at the Center for Great Apes!

I have been on the Board of a monkey sanctuary, have visited 6 other primate sanctuaries, and the Center for Great Apes certainly ranks at the top of all sanctuaries I have visited! The apes are all happy, entertained with a wide variety of enrichment, and fed very healthy foods. Patti Ragan takes special care to ensure that each resident receives the special attention that he/she deserves. The fact that the apes can walk to their vet appointments is amazing! Patti knows every detail about each resident at the sanctuary, and her stories are captivating, and you can tell that she has a special relationship with each one of them. As a donor, I know that my money is going to the best care that can be provided to the resident chimpanzees and orangutans.

I am a donor and have volunteered as well. The Center for Great Apes provides a loving, healing, and restorative environment for the rescued apes that will have a safe and enriching forever home there.

The Center for Great Apes is celebrating their 20th anniversary. For the past 20 years Patti Ragan, founder and president, has dedicated her life to creating the most amazing sanctuary that cares for about 44 chimpanzees and orangutans. Most of these beautiful apes have been raised in horrific conditions. Whether they were in show business and then sold off to roadside zoos when their services were no longer needed, or were in experimental labs for decades or kept and caged as pets trying to be domesticated until they grew into the animals they are, The Center for Great Apes has become their home in which they live out the rest of their lives in a beautiful environment. The Center has taken in and rehabilitated apes that have cerebral palsy, or apes with no arms or legs or apes who have never seen the light of day for years or decades. The Center's amazing habitat includes over a mile long chutes connecting the apes to their various habitats and enclosures creates an environment in which they can live out their natural lives as apes - the way they should. A definite 5 star +++ rating. Thank you Patti.

I became a supporter of this wonderful sanctuary when I looked into the eyes of Linus, a magnificent orangutan who had been rescued from sad circumstances. When he arrived at the center he couldn't stand up properly and he was so dirty that 15lbs of excrement had to be carefully cut from his coat by a dedicated and expert caregiver. He was being kept as a domestic pet and had just grown too big to be safely handled by his owner. Thank goodness the owner realized that his best place was at the sanctuary. As a rainforest animal, kept as a domestic pet, he had never even seen the rain. Now I see him outside whenever he wants exercise and resting inside in his comfy nest when he's feeling lazy. I love to hear his long calls at night. It's a happy ending for Linus.

I began volunteering at the Center for great apes 41/2 years ago at age 79, and have continued practically every Sunday since. Now, at age 83, it is most rewarding to find that I can still contribute to the care and maintenance of equipment and facilities at the Center. To observe, weekly, the love and care given to these 14 orangutans and 30 chimpanzees;and their response thereto is frosting on the cake. Miller

The Center for Great Apes provides a permanent home for orangutans and chimpanzees who have been rescued or retired from the entertainment industry, from research, or who are no longer wanted as pets. They are dedicated to providing the best life possible for these beautiful and highly intelligent animals. Founder Patti Ragan, the employees, and the volunteers are an incredible group of people who go above and beyond to take care of the chimpanzees and orangutans. The Center truly is a large, extended family of people and apes who call this great place home. A great organization who relies on donations for support. Please consider donating and visiting the Center on one of its member's event days.

Since my opinion has not changed, I'm reposting my review from last year, but updated: As a retired ape keeper with 30+ yrs of experience, I have never seen a better facility for apes. Not open to the public, only supported by donations and a few grants, Patti Ragan has taken on 45 (currently) lifelong dependents. Average yearly care is more than $15,000 yearly (more for special needs, like epilepsy drugs). I was so impressed by the work here that I moved to the area when I retired, to help in any way I can. The oldest resident is 52, the youngest is 7, and can potentially live into their 70s! Zoos constantly balance needs of the public vs animals needs - not true here. All funds go toward care of the apes - and every decision is made by asking what is best for this individual.

CGA is transparent where my donations go, they keep donors and the public informed about all the apes, plus they make it possible for donors to visit the sanctuary and learn more about the apes and their work. It's a great facility of the highest quality.

There is a piece of paradise at The Center for Greats Apes (CGA).

Supporter since 1995 was asked to join the board August 2010.

Recalling my first visit, this remarkable great ape sanctuary is nestled amongst the sounds of nature under a canopy of trees. Serene privacy envelops this peaceful sanctuary, where great apes live out their lives in the best possible facilities we can provide.

Following the meandering paths colored with wild hibiscus blossoms, feels like you are walking through a beautiful nature center, with one exception, looking up you may have a family of chimpanzees or orangutans quietly studying you from above, from their one mile of elevated mesh corridors, that they use to traverse the CGA forest.

Carefully plotted are the massive habitats and night houses constructed to provide maximum space, safety and vertical height for the apes. Following the paths will lead to the impeccable commissary filled with fresh produce and fragrances like a farmers market. The chef at the CGA has even written a cookbook featuring her creative gourmet recipes served to the apes (good for humans too)!

As a major supporter I was invited to share dinner with founder Patti Ragan and spend the night on the property. In 24 hours 45 individuals changed my life. Patti Ragan has built a sanctuary beyond imagination. I listened to the sounds of the apes from the morning through the night. I observed their incredible intelligence, communication, enrichment, socializing & depth of their individual personalities. I was emotionally touched by the story of every single resident there.

I cared dearly about Patti Ragan’s work before my visit but after witnessing the goodness, quality, purpose and fiscal responsibility of those involved at the CGA it exceeded all of my expectations & imagination.

Those who care about animals let alone great apes would find honor and deep personal reward knowing they support this incredible organization!

I had a chance to tour this facility a few months ago and was immensely impressed. I was unaware that such an amazing place existed not to mention that such an amazing sanctuary for deserving apes was being provided with such little support from the community at large. The facilities are so carefully planned and take into considerations the needs of all the ape residents in light of the weather conditions they are subject to. The Center for Great Apes staff goes to incredible lengths to ensure that the animals in their care have all the comforts needed to enjoy their retirement years. The staff is professional, knowlegeable, courteous and dedicated. After having toured this facility, I was compelled to become a donor for many years to come.

I went up to The Center for Great Apes with a group of friends. We all volunteer with Chimpanzoo at Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee, FL. We went up the weekend before one of the Open House Day for The Center for Great Apes members. We did some yardwork and weeding to spruce up the areas outside. It was an incredible two days helping out. It was exciting to see the various types of living environments for the Chimpanzees and Orangetangs. In between our work we got to tour the sanctuary. It was interesting to hear the background stories of each individual ape who was living there. The facility provides an enriching environment for these great creatures who need a sanctuary to live out the rest of their lives. I would encourage more people to support this nonprofit organization. If you are an animal lover, this is an incredible unique place to visit.

The Center for Great Apes is providing SANCTUARY for Orangutans & Chimpanzees rescued from the Pet Trade, Labs and "The Entertainment" Industry. Patti & her Staff provide Great Care for these Magnificant Animals: Enrichments, Social Structures, Health Care & allow these Great Apes to live with DIGNITY. In 2011 we attended the Spring Event & what an Educational Experience as well as Emotional Experience. The Staff is AWESOME & I cannot stress enough the GREAT WORK being done at the Center!

I have donated to the Center for years, but this past year, was able to attend a "Members Event." The Staff at the Center is SECOND TO NONE. I hope for a day when people understand that chimps are not "pets" - no more research - and no more "entertainment." The chimps and orangutans at the Center are very fortunate. They are cared for with respect and dignity. They enjoy delicious meals, and they get enrichment fun and plenty of love. You can just see the respect the staff has for each individual. Patti and her Staff are amazing!

This is an exceptionally run sanctuary for apes. It is the only one for Orangutans. The apes have come as former pets, 'actors' and lab animals. They are all treated with love and dignity. They are provided with entertaining enrichment, good food and good medical attention. The site itself is remarkably beautiful; it consists of enclosures in a jungle, far away from the touristy beaches of FL.

My husband is a veterinarian and I desired to work more with apes. The closest facility was; The Center for Great Apes. I volunteered there off and on for a couple years. The founder Patti Ragan and the staff was the most dedicated I have ever seen. The true love and devotion to providing professional, quality care was amazing! I worked in the kitchen assisting the chef in preparng nutritious meals and snacks for more than 42 apes. It is a clean, ultra organized facility where the chimpanzees and organgutans have a new chance on life. Many unfortunately had lived the first half of their lives in small cages with barely enough food to survive.

Center for Great Apes helped us to rescue two pet chimps that needed a better home. They are the most compassionate, resourceful, consciencious, devoted, reputable, and dedicated group. We continue to support them, and keep up with their constant attentions to their many Ape residents. With their enrichment programs, and attention to each Ape in their ongoing everyday programs, these Apes are truly well taken care of and loved. Patti Ragan and her Staff work hard to provide a place for them, some in dire need, like 43 year old Clyde, who arrived recently skinny, and starving to death. He now has been recovering and will finally live out the rest of his life as a Chimp instead of a prisoner in a cage.

I work with captive chimps and orangutans at a local zoological facility, I have volunteered on a few occasions and follow CGA closely. They are the best non public facility I have ever seen. The staff and Patti are amazing and a true inspiration to myself. The animals are fed and cared for better than most zoos I know. The staff has the time to invest into the amazing animals that are lucky to make it to CGA.

I have been a donor/volunteer for the Center for Great Apes for 18 months. The first time I visited the Center, was at a member's event. I was amazed at the beautiful, tranquil home that the founder/director Patti Ragan created for the lifetime care of the apes. From the large two or three story high enclosures, surrounded by lush trees and plants, to the mile of chutes, where the chimpanzees and orangutans can walk around the sanctuary and observe other apes, sanctuary staff and can even look through the food room window and watch the dietician and volunteers make their very healthy, and very creative meals.

The sanctuary is beyond amazing for the high quality of care for these beautiful animals that have come from desperate situations. Having now volunteered for the last year and a half, I can see the consistency of the high standard of care and the dedication from the director, staff and volunteers. Obviously, as a donor, this is very important to me.

For donors and future donors, this is a charitable organization that needs ongoing help and to know that your donations are efficiently used for the continued welfare of the apes.

I am the newest employee to the center, but have worked professionally in captive animal management for 10 years. I have been fortunate to work in some incredible places which have had a significant impact on the survival of species. This facility has a significant impact on the survival of individuals which may not make much difference in the overall survival of these endangered species, but it makes an enormous difference in the lives of these individulas. I feel my efforts here are every bit as important as they were in endangered species recovery. These are amoung the very most intelligent species on earth, and many have been discarded and forced to live in deplorable conditions whether due to arbitrary values placed on their genetics, retired laboratory subjects, or unmanageable as entertainment performers and pets. The entertainment/pet lifespan of these animals is but a few short years, but these species live for decades and decades. They deserve better, and they receive it here at the Center for Great Apes. As many have written, this is a magical place not only for the setting, but primarily for the opportunity these individuals have to live an enriching life where their well being is the primary focus and not an inconvience. This place is the only sanctuary for Orangutans in the U.S., and while there are more chimpanzee sanctuaries (which I have not yet visited), I would be hard pressed to image one that would provide as enriching, safe, and secure environment such as this. This facility is extremely important to our closest relatives to provide them a true sanctuary in their time of need and provide that for the remainder of their lives. This facility depends on the support of individuals and organizations to continue the care of these amazing individuals. The resources begotten go directly to the care of these incredible personalities and I feel allocations of resouces to this nonprofit could be no better spent.

I have been a volunteer for this organization for two years and am continually inspired by the commitment of the staff to provide quality care and sanctuary to the chimpanzees and orangutans who desperately deserve some peace and tranquility. The animals receive emotional as well as physical care which is critical due to their previous history as victims of the entertainment industry or pet trade. The environment provided for each individual is superior with opportunities for exercise and daily enrichment. Bravo to the compassion of the staff at this very excellent facility. Sandra Fenley

I first volunteered at the Center for Great Apes several years ago and was extremely impressed with not only the facility itself, but more importantly, the genuine care, committment and compassion of each and every person involved in caring for the wonderful residents. Just helping with the activities, how great or small assures you that you are contributing to a very worthy and wonderful cause, and you can see it on the many appreciative faces that no longer have to spend their lives in a degrading or humiliating manner of entertaning the "human race"; yet can simply peacefully live out the remainder of their lives enjoying the friendship of their companions, and the many caregivers and volunteers. It is truly a wonderful environment to be a part of. Unfortunately, when I first started, my schedule did not permit me to continue my volunteer work for very long; as it is a 2 hour commute one way to the sanctuary. However, now I find, that spending time with the GREAT apes is helping me probably as much or more than I am helping them, so it is well worth the drive, and I look forword to being an active volunteer for many years to come. The Center for Great Apes is a special, one-of-kind sanctuary. If only mankind would learn to leave wild animals in the wild, but since we can't seem to leave well enough alone, thank goodness there are a few angels amoung us such as Patti and her generous supporters who can give these very special creatures a peaceful place to live at some point during their journey.

I've been involved with the The Center for Great Apes since its inception and every time I visit I'm in awe of all they have done.

It's a beautiful, peaceful place that provides care to orangutans and chimpanzees in a safe, healthy, and enriching environment. Every ape has a past story that will bring a tear your eye - and a smile to your face when you see them today at the sanctuary.

Every staff member knows every ape by name and the founder, Patti Ragan, greets each of them every morning and every evening. The Center for Great Apes will touch your heart.

After several years of volunteering at Ohio's Nature's Nursery Wildlife Rehab Center, I feel privileged to assist in the smallest of ways of insuring a kinder life for the Great Apes at this Center. I laughed during the movie Smokey & the Bandit, or Planet of the Great Apes, & never realized the same "stars", Jacob & Jonah, brother chimpanzees I would meet much later, spent years apart in cages only big enough to turn around slowly. As I bike ride through OH & FL. I am thrilled to teach people about the Center's Apes, who's pictures adorn my bike panniers. Most are shocked that the cute chimpanzees they see in TV commercials are less than the 6 yrs of age, which is the time they would first be thinking of leaving their Mothers. In speaking at a bike club more than a few children came up to me with donations because they were 9-12 yrs old & wanted to help "teenager apes", who no longer could find jobs were & stuck living in tiny cells away from their siblings & parents, maybe move in the Center's home. As I watch Mari climb to the top of a 3 story outdoor enclosure with only her legs, since she lost her arms as a baby, I realize just how strong women are & what a wonderful example she leads for each of us. I am thrilled that she can now spend the rest of her years not fearing what trials and pain each new day will bring. Gardening is never boring there because I always have company from Stryker and Kodua, 2 young chimpanzees, who love to play not so quietly, above me in the overhead chutes. I miss them very much when residing in Oh, but it brings me so much pleasure to spend even 5 minutes telling one more person just how lucky these special Apes are to have found a home, as the forests continue to decline, & how important it is to choose products wisely. Poor choices lead to the depletion of the earth's reserves, which means more of these precious creatures will find themselves living out their days away from their own kind in dark hovels, alone & wondering what they did wrong to earn this life. The Center For Great Apes saved a few from this life, only generous humans can help save the rest.

I had the opportunity to tour and work with other volunteers at the Center for Great Apes and I am thoroughly impressed with every aspect of their organization. They take amazing care and do great things for the animals in their care and the environment is clean, safe, and friendly. Each animal has an amazing story and each volunteer and/or staff member does their best to enrich the life of that animal based on their specific needs. People make a very poor choice when they choose to use these animals for their own personal amusement or in entertainment for the public for many reasons and the outcome is never good. Its unfortunate that we need a place like the Center for Great Apes but thank goodness Patti Reagan and her staff of caring volunteers exists to rescue these animals and let them live out their lives in the best environment possible.

Volunteering at the Center for Great Apes has been an extreme pleasure. It was a very unique and engaging experience. All of the apes there are extremely loved and taken care of, not only by the staff members, but by volunteers and the community as well. The apes were always happy in their environments and loved the staff members dearly. I personally got to work along side these animals, and I discovered how magnificent they really are. This opened my eyes to many needs that these apes have, and what might have happened to them if the Center for Great Apes had not taken them into care. This is such an amazing place and I encourage anyone to visit if they get the chance.

There are many wonderful animal rescues out there. But the Center for Great Apes is among the finest. Every animal there has an incredible story. Whether they were rescued from private owners who didn't understand their needs, or a research facility or the entertainment industry, they all come needing just a little bit more love and attention than the average primate. I am a volunteer at the Center and have seen first-hand the transition from their arrival state to being themselves or even comfortable among their own kind. Some of them having never seen another chimpanzee or orangutan before that time. It truly is remarkable!! And the staff, volunteers and donors play a HUGE role in that transition. For anyone who knows what great apes are like and how they behave, it is not a quick and/or easy process. These highly-intelligent creatures require so much more than food, water and shelter. The Center for Great Apes provides that and allows these animals to just be. They don't have to play any special "role" other than themselves. They get the life-long care they deserve. Unfortunately, the center cannot last on good intentions alone. Chimpanzees and orangutans can live into their 40's and 50's. It takes time, money, dedication and love. Spend just a few moments on their website, or if you're lucky the Center itself, and you will see what I mean. The Center for Great Apes is a one-of-a-kind facility that provides one-in-a-million care.

We, as a society and as individuals, have a choice about how we treat captive chimpanzees and other great apes. We’ve always had a choice. Past generations made some very bad choices. They treated entertainment chimps as moneymaking commodities that could be prodded or beaten for training purposes.

Patti Ragan, founder and director of the Center for Great Apes, made a different choice twenty years ago, when she used her own money to start a sanctuary for discarded chimps and orangutans.

Because of Patti, and the caregivers, board members and volunteers who support the Center, the animals feel secure. For many of them, this is the first time they can trust their caregivers. Many bear physical and psychological scars of their past, but now their scars have a chance to fade. They aren’t on display to the public, they aren’t asked to do anything except what is necessary for their health and well-being. They can be who they were meant to be, as much as is possible for apes born into captivity.

I love that we can help out in a number of ways, and in this economy, not everyone has money to give! I enjoy sharing the photographs of the apes with my friends and am very proud to have the Center as part of our community!

As a visitor to friends in Florida I was privileged to visit the Center for Orangutan and Chimpanzee Conservation Inc. What an amazing time it was to witness the exchange between the animals and those who care for them daily as well as the exchange and interactions of those fortunate enough to have been "rescued" and living is such terrific quarters. Many of these animals are large in size and came from some undesirable situations. Consequently they require spaces that accomodate them. The work they do there is such a blessing.

When I became a Center for Great Apes donor, I symbolically "adopted" Kodua, a beautiful young female chimp. Little did I know that I would soon feel like I was adopted by Kodua's family. I liked Kodua because she gently played with Knuckles, a chimp with some disabilities, and her little brother, Bobby Stryker. When I went to Wauchula for a private tour of the Center for Great Apes, an older female chimp, Oopsie, was having surgery. Oopsie is Kodua's grandmother. The first male chimp I visited was Grub, who let me know he was the boss of his enclosure by doing a display and throwing things around. Grub is Kodua's uncle. I got to see Kodua and Bobby playing in the distance, but as we passed their enclosure, an adult female chimp, Jessie, began to flirt with me! Jessie is Kodua's mother. I was amazed that such an extended family exists at a great ape sanctuary. I've only named a few chimps from that family, which is just as large, and probably more connected and functional, than my own extended human family. I have since learned that chimps and humans are so very similar that we should treat chimps, gorillas and orangutans with dignity and respect. The Center for Great Apes gives its primate guests the humane treatment that they deserve. I applaud them for their efforts, and I am honored to continue my financial support.

This selfless Center and Patti Ragan, are remarkable. The staff are so compassionate, caring and giving to these wonderful animals who, until arriving at the Center, were living in some very unbearable situations. I live in Rochester, New York, and discovered this place on a visit to Florida last December. I immediately made reservations to come there last February to volunteer for a week with the animals. I witnessed the most awesome people and apes. The environment, habitats, daily enrichment program, the food (my God, the healthy food), and generosity in money and time of the other volunteers. It was a total spiritual experience for me and am going to return this October to do my very little part in caring for some of God's greatest creatures.

I am an attorney who represented three chimpanzees who were being abused by an animal trainer in Hollywood. After the chimps were rescued, it was very important to find an appropriate sanctuary for each individual chimp. Angel was a special case, as she was a sensitive girl with significant PTSD issues. I could not be more grateful for the Center for agreeing to take Angel into their care. Founder Patti Ragan could not have been more helpful in facilitating her transportation. When Angel arrived, we discovered that she was afraid of being shut inside, so for over a year, Patti made sure that she could sleep outside, where she was more comfortable, often setting up heaters under Angel's nest to make sure she was warm enough in the winter air. Angel was carefully introduced to other chimps, with whom she has developed strong friendships. When it was discovered that she was having trouble getting enough food within her group, her caretakers discovered that she was especially good at foraging for food in her enclosure and they started hiding food in places that only Angel could find. Angel still enjoys playing with dolls, which the Center adapts for her by taking out the stuffing and replacing it with old t-shirts. Angel also likes girlie things like mirrors and hair ties, which she uses to make little "ponytails" in her leg hair. Every time I visit her, I marvel at how well the caretakers know Angel, her fears and quirks, and how much they love her. I cannot say enough about this place. Not your ordinary sanctuary, this is the place for chimps and orangutans who, like Angel, have suffered permanent emotional damage at the hands of humans, either in entertainment or as pets. There will be a special place in heaven for Patti Ragan and her extraordinarily devoted staff.

Everything I know (and love) about the Center For Great Apes is first class. From the care to the animals, the volunteer opportunities, and everything else thiss is one of the best facilities in the world.

I love that they have a wish list for the animals, so even if you don't feel like making a huge donation, you can donate little things, and still feel like you have helped make a difference. I was amazed when I got a thank you postcard in the mail thanking me for my small donation....such an AMAZING personal touch!

I truly believe this is a great organization, and I know anyone else will too. It's amazing people, doing amazing things, for amazing animals.