My Nonprofit Reviews
SpikesMom
Review for Wild Bird Fund Inc, New York, NY, USA
I’ve volunteered for the WBF for nearly two years now. And—seriously—that I keep going back is a testament to the quality of work the WBF does and the impact it has, because I am congenitally averse to wasting my time and intensely committed to the well-being of animals.
I generally work reception. It’s deeply moving to meet the people who bring us hurt, sick, or orphaned animals, frequently via bus and subway from the outer edges of the city. Before this office opened, there was nowhere to go with these animals unless you could find and afford a vet who would treat them. People are so grateful to find us.
The number of animals that come through the front door is staggering. I would estimate that there are never fewer than 100 animals in residence, and, during migrations and the spring birthing season, up to 250. During those times the place is packed with volunteers who hand-feed babies and the seriously ill and make sure the animals in cages have food, water, a clean place to recover, and exercise.
The volunteers at the WBF are just as committed to the well-being of the animals in our care as the people who bring them to us. The center could not exist without the volunteers, because so far it can only afford to pay a few part-time “vet techs.” Even the animal rehabbers, who are licensed, are volunteers. Fundraising is of critical importance, because we are not yet over the hump that guarantees our continued existence. And the city needs the WBF desperately if we are going to take responsibility for the well-being of our wildlife.
Whenever it’s possible, the animals are returned to the wild, as close as possible to where they were found. Just as you would imagine, returning a bird to the wild is a moving and uplifting experience, whether a hummingbird or hawk, a pigeon or a swan. When release is not possible because the animal can’t survive in the wild, it’s placed in the amazing network of sanctuaries around the tri-state area.
One such bird was Elvis the Canada goose. Elvis ruled the roost, so to speak, around the center until he had a sanctuary to go to upstate and a ride to get there. Another favorite was Ernest the brain-damaged pheasant. What a sweetie! Usually we are careful to avoid getting the animals too comfortable around humans, but since Ernest was not being returned to the wild, it was okay to make a bit of a fuss about him as he strolled around the center.
There are dozens, hundreds of stories about animals the WBF has helped. Please give as much as you can to ensure the continued existence of this critical resource to New York City. The WBF makes a major difference already, but it could do much more with greater financial support. I promise you, your gift will make a meaningful contribution to the well-being of the city’s wildlife. Thank you…and do drop by, with or without a wildlife escort.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
seeing a red-tailed hawk released back into the wild.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I can't think of anything that doesn't depend on more money. With what they have, they do an amazing job.
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
Again, I can't think of anything that doesn't depend on more money: Having more regular staff would improve the volunteer experience.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
Yes, volunteering at the WBF allows me to make a tangible contribution in an area of primary importance to me personally and to the planet as a whole.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
Ooooh, many, many different ways: I spend a lot of time there! But I wouldn't go back if the overriding feeling weren't satisfaction.
Review for BrightFocus Foundation, Clarksburg, MD, USA
The people I worked with (as a freelance) at AHAF were extremely committed to serving their constituencies by providing the most accurate, up-to-date information they could on their target diseases. They also fund research that is too new and innovative to attract funding from more conservative organizations. (They've funded at least two scientists who went on to win Nobels, both of whom serve on their board.) There have been breakthroughs due to their funding you can read about on their site.
More Feedback
Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
A lot
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
