For our avid blog-readers, I am sure you have noticed how many of my blog posts are quite sappy or sentimental. Just like how you can count on Anthony’s blog posts for puns, I feel like mine are typically infused with sappiness.
And unfortunately, that is not going to stop today…
Something that really stands out to me here at CSNW is the feeling of community. It is a different level of community than other places I have been. It has been even more apparent to me over the past month.
With our recent fundraiser (HOOT!), our summer full of MANY chimpanzee birthdays, volunteer work parties to progress construction on Young’s Hill, I have been consistently blown away by the support from all of you. It is quite an indescribable feeling to know how many people out there stand behind what we do, from both near and far.
Just as an example, for Missy’s birthday in August, we loaded up our Amazon Wishlist with items we knew Missy would love for her big day, and over the span of probably a week, all of the party items had been bought. Our chimp house foyer was packed with tomato themed items up until her birthday.
Also, another example: yesterday was Day 1 of the volunteer work party on Young’s Hill. There was such a big turnout that yesterday’s tasks were finished in about 3.5 hours. It was amazing the progress that had been made by some generous volunteers who love the chimps! The hill isn’t ready for the chimps just yet, but we are steps closer and that is exciting!
“A true community is not just about being geographically close to someone or part of the same social web network. It’s about feeling connected and responsible for what happens.”
I found this quote today and it couldn’t be more true. We have supporters all over the world, with many who will never visit Cle Elum, Washington. Despite the distance, you continuously support the chimps and are crucial parts of their lives. Your support, in all of the ways possible you can give it, no matter how big or small, makes a huge difference for the sanctuary.
The staff, volunteers, donors, and anyone who has supported CSNW in the past or present all have something in common: we all love and adore the 16 chimps and want to see them thrive. We hope you feel apart of this community because we are grateful you’re here!
Terry:
Burrito:
Sappy? Sentimental? Fuggeduhboutit… The daily blog postings from CSNW are my most trusted source of news that I rely upon. If I was completely smitten with Burrito the first time that I was watched a video of him as he played tug-o’-war with his friend Lizz,
I can only imagine the afore-mentioned sap and sentiment which could undermine a CSNW employee’s scientific objectivity. When someone like Bonnie Prince Terry deigns to kiss the back of a caregiver’s blue-gloved hand, how can one resist such an endearing gesture, or perpetrator?
that is not the kind of work someone would do just for the money…..sharing is the conerstone of this type of life’s work……..thank you…………..:relieved:
Speaking from the heart is never sappy. And I agree with you. These 16 chimpanzees, and four cattle, are irresistible! Thank you for taking time out of your busy days to share them with me!
Jenna,
I, too, see and feel the community here at “our sanctuary”. I always want to say ‘our chimps’ or ‘our sanctuary’ because I feel as if I’m a part of the community here at CNSW. And this community (at least from my perspective as a donor from Arkansas) is entirely because of this awesome daily blog. It not only gives us a window into their daily lives and antics, but also allows us to follow their lives’ progressions. We also get to be along for the longer term projects and see them come to fruition, such as watching the construction of the playrooms and greenhouses, or The Bray. And even better, getting to follow along during and post integration.
This blog brings together so many people who only want the best for all who call CSNW home. And by taking the time everyday to write, take pics and video, we readers come to know each person individually and love each of them for their unique qualities that make them special. I try to periodically keep up with the other sanctuaries, but I don’t have a heartfelt connection to their residents, like I do with our chimps. This blog builds connections; those connections turn into caring about and supporting CSNW. I know every evening I may see Burrito with a block in his mouth, Annie looking as sweet as possible, or Gordo bunny hopping. I look forward to getting to see ‘what y’all been git’n up to today’ and to be delighted by the day’s goings on. I only feel this connection wih the CSNW community. The other sanctuaries don’t give us a way to build a daily connection to their residents. CSNW is completely unique and special in that respect. The staff and volunteers at CSNW are the epitome of sanctuary, giving our chimps, cattle, LouLou, barn kitty, and all the other creatures who come to visit, their best lives possible. And the community and support you’ve built allows lives to thrive and the sanctuary to grow and sustain. Truly a unique place built and supported out of love and compassion.
That is so well said, Kim, I wholeheartedly agree with you.
I would like to add that the size of CSNW helps in connecting I think and I do hope you will not grow much bigger……
Ditto! I love CSNW over all the other sanctuary because we get to know each individual so personally. And I love the blog community. I feel like we’re all friends.
From WINDY in Florida tonight!