Today was sponsored by two long-time friends of the chimpanzees, Thyra and David Rutter, in celebration of the five year anniversary of Arte for Elephants!
Thyra and David are the founders of this wonderful organization which was created out of their desire to do whatever they can to help elephants who are suffering in captivity. Five years ago they sold most of their belongings and set out in an RV, traveling to raise awareness of the issues captive and wild elephants face, selling artwork, donating funds and inspiring other artists to take action. Since that time they’ve donated over $45,000 dollars to support sanctuaries around the world that are rescuing and appropriately caring for captive elephants. They also work with those communities to create programs which promote humane and ethical travel and tourism opportunities, as well as an educational scholarship program. In 2019, Arte for Elephants was able to award their first two Big Elephant Magic Scholarships which are paying for a full year of education for two young girls in northern Thailand and subsequently, have expanded to include three young girls in Kenya.
If there were ever a time when reading something inspiring, hopeful, and community-centered was much appreciated, it’s certainly now. Thanks so much, Thyra and David, for the impassioned work you do and for including the chimpanzees in that good magic.
If anyone can attest to the intrinsic value of living a life of dignity, respect and love for exactly who they are, particularly after decades of use in the entertainment and biomedical research industries, it’s Jamie:
Jamie leading Missy, Jody and Foxie on a perimeter check around Young’s Hill:
A throwback to Jamie and her elephant friend napping by the old barn doors of the playroom (pre-expansion) in the springtime breeze:
Thank you so much to Thyra and David. I’m also passionate about elephants and apes, and I’m so glad to see what they’re doing.
I love the first picture of Jody- so beautiful!
Thank you Thyra & David.
Your story, along with Jamie’s is so very inspiring.
God’s blessings to you both and blessings for all the wonderful things you do!
Outstanding what you have accomplished. Oh how wish I had the courage to do the same. What a difference you are making. I love elephants too, so I will to place Thyra and David into a little pocket in heart.
And Jamie, sigh….. look at you (love the top two photos). Inspiring indeed. My heart bursts for you!
Thyra has been my hero now for many years. I have known this beautiful woman most of her life and her love, caring, passion and dedication to bringing awareness to the plight of these gorgeous animals encouraged me to get more involved myself. I can’t speak highly enough of what she has accomplished in such a short amount of time and how beautiful her soul is. Love you Thyra (and David). You are my inspiration. xoxo
Wonderful what Thyra and David have done and do. The plight of circus animals and baby orangutans stolen from their mothers arms has always been a passion of mine as well as the medical lab chimps. I wonder when and IF humans will ever stop abusing helpless animals. We can only thank the people who dedicate their lives to make life more bearable for animals who wind up being rescued. Thank You Thyra and david and all the wonderful staff at CSNW.