Ol Donyo Lodge
info@greatplainsfoundation.com
Project #1
The Big Life Foundation has facilitated the establishment of two primary schools and one boarding school on Mbirikani Group Ranch, providing education to over 300 students per year.
In addition, the Foundation has constructed classrooms and renovated facilities for other group ranch schools as well.The Big Life Foundation also sponsors 20 government-certified teachers’ salaries annually.
Project #2
The Mbirikani Community Game Scouts’ 158 full-time, community game scouts are employed by the The Big Life Foundation. Each scout is in uniform and is trained, linked to headquarters via radio communication, equipped for camping and patrols, and receives vehicle support.
These men are deployed in various operating units to combat poaching activities, resolve human-wildlife conflict, keep river systems flowing, monitor lion movement, and facilitate the trusts’ Predator Compensation Fund.
Project #3
Chyulu Black Rhino is supported by the The Big Life Foundation. It is a dedicated rhino unit of 65 fully equipped and armed rangers who work in close collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service rangers.
Their mandate is to protect a rare and highly-threatened group of black rhino, one of the very last breeding populations living outside of protected sanctuaries in Kenya today.
Best evidence suggests the present, local rhino population to be between 14 and 18 individuals. Three successful births were recorded in the past three years.
The protected sanctuaries in Kenya contain less than 600 black rhino and do not represent an acceptable, long-term solution for the species if rhino cannot survive in the wild.
Initiatives Supported
Listed on this page are the specific needs requested by the community project(s) so you can choose exactly what to pack for a purpose and express your gratitude to the local community with the supplies you take them. If you prefer, you may reach out directly to them to inquire about items which may be available for purchase locally. Arranging visits to community projects is beyond the scope of our mission. If you wish to visit a project, contact the participant and they can let you know what is possible.
Candy and balloons are not on the needs list as they are harmful for the children and the environment for the following reasons:
• Few of the children benefiting from these projects have access to toothpaste, toothbrushes, or a dentist. The candy promotes cavities.
• The balloons once they become deflated are a choking hazard for local wildlife.
Instead of taking candy or balloons, use that space for additional requested supplies, as they are priceless.
