My Nonprofit Reviews

I didn't really think of myself as a tiger-guy. My wife always had a passion for these great beasts but me ... I just thought they were pretty. It was her thing, not mine.

A couple years ago now my wife found herself in a bit of serendipity. A monk, curious about her bucket list, asked for further details beyond having a meal with a Buddhist monk. It was then that she mentioned that she always wanted to work with tigers. His response was surprising, "I think I can help you with that."

A few weeks later we pulled up to the front entrance of CARE. We were greeted by the lazy majesty that is Sampson. We took the tour, meeting one great cat after another, getting certain insights into these cats, things you don't hear on wildlife show, things only known by those who live and work regularly with these residents.

Soon after we were volunteering. Both of us. I was there by my wife's side on some weekends sharing in her dream. We cleaned enclosures, filled water bowls, and wired fences. Not exactly the easiest work but definitely rewarding. And with each passing weekend it became apparent that the cats started to recognize us. Being recognized and greeted by a tiger is pretty heartwarming, I gotta say.

These cats are loved. It's not their fault they have found themselves in this country, behind fences, needing to be protected from us humans. As a result they need two things in order to thrive. They require both passion and love, which their caretakers have in abundance. They are treated like royalty, fed a diet that keeps them healthy and vibrant, kept clean and as comfortable as possible all while being allowed some degree of their royal comforts.

It's pretty easy to get swept up in the wave of passion for these big cats. To see the sheer effort it takes to care for them is inspiring considering the love that powers those who serve them.

This is a great place. It's a place to learn, a place to work hard, and a place to see the rewards of all of it in the healthy, shining eyes of CARE's residents.

More Feedback