Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Anyone who knows me well knows that I'm not very good at abbreviating. I'm long-winded, so deal with it! However, I'll try to keep this as captivating as possible...

As most of you know I have been planning a trip to Cameroon, Africa for the better part of the past year! I am going to work at a remote primate rescue and rehabilitation center that is located in Southern Cameroon, in Mefou National Park, on the western border of the Congo Jungle. The work being done at this center is funded by a charity; Ape Action Africa, and "survives" solely on monetary contributions of field researchers, and the general public. 

Besides countless hours dedicated to educating the local community about tools and methods for conservation of the wildlife and land in their area, this center serves as a safe haven for chimps, gorillas, and monkeys, all of which have been through terrifying and traumatic ordeals. Orphaned by poachers working in the bushmeat industry, or injured due to unregulated logging practices, they are left without their natural habitat; without their family. Many more would die if not for the safety of Mefou National Park, and the care provided by people who work there.

My trip has been postponed from February 2010 until August 2010... Which, I must admit, had me heartbroken at first. However, after making peace with it, and accepting that it is just how this was meant to be, I've realized two things: 1) I now have more time to practice my French, which I will need in Cameroon! And, 2) I can use this time to raise awareness and money for the program.

By making a contribution to Ape Action Africa, you will have a direct impact on the work being accomplished at the center; veterinarian care, center upkeep, research projects, community outreach, not to mention the housing and food for interns and volunteers. 

So, essentially, when you make a donation, you are contributing to how much food I will have to eat while I'm down there! haha! Ok, ok, maybe not exactly... But, in many ways you will help ensure the continuation of the remarkable work being accomplished through this project, and that will make me very grateful!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - your information will not be shared, nor will you receive tons of unwanted emails. Once you donate, your money will go directly to the charity. That money is then used, as needed, at the center in Cameroon. The contribution can be reclaimed on your 2010 taxes; registered charity # 1057061.

Keep in mind that this a UK-based organization, and any contributions must be made in British Pounds currency, and will be deducted from you bank account in a U.S. Dollar amount. To simplify the exchange rate; it is 0.50 which = 50%. Meaning, that if make a contribution of 20 British Pounds, it will actually = 40 U.S. Dollars.

I realize this makes things a bit more difficult... So, please do not feel obligated to contribute a huge amount. In fact, you don't have to contribute at all! I'll sincerely appreciate your "well-wishes" for this momentous journey, and for the work I'll be undertaking.

I am certain this experience will be unlike any other I've had up to this point. It is an unbelievable opportunity; I am anxious to join the effort, and thrilled to be a part of this amazing project!! 

Thanks,

Regina

AKA: Reg, Reghead, Reggie-Bear  ;)

LINKS:

Ape Action Africa Website: http://tempuri.org/tempuri.html