A Lesson Learned: Tigers Pt. 1

Tigers, one of the greatest loves in my life.

Recently I saw my first tigers at a local zoo in Tacoma, WA and it was the most eye opening experience that I've ever had.

But with today being my birthday I felt the need to have to let people know about one of my favorite animals, the tiger and just how important they truly are.

Where I live, In Washington, we are known now for alot of things. Weed, Gay marriage, Beer, The Seattle Seahawks, and conservation.

I've learned alot about animals since I started this blog, and as I get older, my knowledge and passion will continue to grow and expand. As well as my need to educate the general public about these programs that I am so dedicated to.

So then, let's start.

There has been alot of speculation about tigers, mostly about private ownership. Which is something I've wished to get off my chest for awhile, but will abstain from using all caps for the sake of this message.

No animal that belongs in the wild will EVER be tame. It's just a common misconception. Just like how people think that since house cats are domesticated that they can live without red meat in their diet. It just isn't possible.

Tigers are apex predators, that can weight over 800lbs in the wild and reach a length of 11ft. They aren't your typical house cat, they're adorable, yes. But within 2-3 months they will be more then capable of maiming you and others. Which is where I continue my stand against exotic animal ownership.

When I met these guys I was in complete awe. I knew how to chuff, I knew about their markings and coloring, I  knew which one was Sumatran and which one was Malayan. I know these things because I have become obsessed with tigers. I have loved these beautiful and rather deadly creatures. Because when you love something, you want to learn more about it, and that is where I stand.

But having the knowledge about something and helping do something are two completely different things. So I'm using this blog to educate you on private ownership of these animals as well as these 'zoos' that are only using these wonderful animals for money.

Private ownership. There is no exact record of how many tigers are in the wild. Most people feel that it is either out of date information, or just educated guesses. But the reasoning as to why tigers are disappearing is because of these things.

1. Habitat destruction.
2. Habitat fragmentation.
3. Poaching.

First off, habitat destruction, we all know what that is. You go into an animals home and habitat. Perhaps the only place it could establish itself in, 30-50 miles and you knock it down. Not just knock it down, but strip everything away, the trees, the vegetation and you scatter the life that lived there to the wind. Then you throw down some asphalt and build a condo there. Or a town, or a city, or a parking garage. Whatever the reason be, humanity is expanding and that is unfortunate to all the other species out there. Destroying habitat that belongs to endangered species around the world so an area can gain a temporary economy with sandy beaches vs eco tourism.

Second, Habitat fragmentation. It's alot like the first one, but instead of cutting down this thousand acre area to make way for a shopping mall you cut out 100 here and 30 there and 70 here and 150 there. Leaving large fragmented areas for wildlife to struggle to adapt and survive. Here's an example. Lets say you live in a 50 acre area you cut down a slice of 20 right in the middle. Then you're area is between two habitats that could possibly have two mating animals. But they won't be able to because they're separated. making it more difficult to increase the population. Therefore continuing to contribute to the problem.

Lastly, poaching. I cannot emphasis on this enough, I HATE poaching. I hate it. It's a disgusting and sickening practice that only seems to solidify the old ways of medicine. Where it was all superstition and the ingestion of gross body parts instead of science. It takes us back to the dark ages or with Pliny the Elder believed that a she-goats brain passed through a gold ring and given to children will stop epilepsy. I'm a very science based person, I'm overly critical in the thought department. With all that I know, I have a VERY hard time agreeing that a tiger bone powered in a drink will somehow cure arthritis, or make men more 'potent'. I just can't agree with this practice.

So because of these things tiger populations have dwindled in the wild. But because of the tigers Endangered status people are starting to see animals that are endangered as a status symbol. If you're anybody they HAVE to have an endangered animal. Despite how dangerous it is. So let's just throw some numbers out there to help this out.

From 1998-2001 there were 59 incidents in which people were reportedly injured or killed by captive tigers. In the United states 7 people were killed and at least 27 people were injured. Which levels out to 1.75 fatal attacks and 9 non fatal attacks per year. All but one fatal attack in the US occurred where the tigers were privately owned or in private facilities.

42% of these people were visitors and almost 25% of the victims were under the age of 20.

So what did we get from this?

What we got from this is basically this. Private ownership of a dangerous animal is just that, dangerous. There are many kinds of guidelines that you have to follow. From having permits, to adequate space and fencing. To proper food and diets for the animals that you have.

There has been many times that people have owned tigers, or bears, or cougars and have left them in a cage to die abandoning them in a barn, or a shelter with no food or water. Which is what I cannot understand. You took something in, something you knew well that had high priced tastes. Tigers only eat red meat, LOTS of red meat. So why, when they get older does someone leave them to die? Because tigers, like alot of exotic pets are expensive, red meat is expensive, and when they're eating over 200lbs of it a day. You'll get strapped for cash fast. Which is why I reiterate.

Exotic pets aren't good pets. 

They belong in the wild. Where they can hunt, roll in grass, swim in water, and make all kinds of cute babies. Not behind your house, or in some cases in your garage. What is wild should stay wild.

So, let's continue to keep these guys happy, healthy and in the wild. Where they truly belong. Let's try to preserve their habitat, and keep them together to they can make the babies!

I love tigers, and I will be sorely dissapointed in humanity if we just let these amazing creatures die out. I want to be long, long, long dead before the last tiger takes it's last breath.

A lesson learned in Tigers. 

- Amanda

Please support these wonderful groups that are posted on my birthday donations page guys. We all know how much I love these creatures and these groups are helping tigers in the US and in keeping the public in the know on private ownership. Please help guys, it's well worth it.

http://www.charitybirthday.com/birthdays/amanda_w

Donation #13: Kiva

In all the work that I have done, I have focused my attentions on numerous non profit groups. I've let you know what they represent, and what your money helps support. But so far I haven't supported a group who's soul purpose is to give back and give more to those.

In the past few months I have been rationalizing the change that has been going about with my job. As well as trying to accept it, it's been a hard idea to try and muster. But in due time and learning my strengths in where I am, I'm learning to accept it for what it is.

I'm learning more, being trusted with more, and when the opportunity arises, I am stepping up and taking more responsibility. I can say at this rate my name badge can say, ' Everywhere and Anywhere' as a job title.

I've cleaned floors, baked goods, prepped foods, folded clothes, stocked shelves, cashiered, pushed carts, and handled seafood. I've been in every department in our store excluding the places that require a state license. But I'll get to it eventually.

In these months I have expanded myself to show more to the world. I continue to paint, donate and help groups with their conservation efforts. As well as enjoy the spring weather that has graced the Pacific Northwest with varying degrees of temperature. This week it's supposed to reach the 80's, right now it feels like it's the beginning to mid 70's.

But regardless, here I am boasting about the weather, instead of talking about more important things.

I have gained some claim with my coworkers for my paintings and what it is that my paintings do. As well as some much love from the worldwide web that makes the idea of selling these all the easier.

This is where I come in with my posting now. Because of all this, because of the support that I've received, the interest and the requests I am able to do more. Which is what my spotlight group does for many people around the world.

The group that I'm talking about, is Kiva.

For those of you who don't know, Kiva is a non profit organization that connects people in the world through micro-financing. A small sum of 25$ can help create opportunity and help alleviate poverty in areas around the world.

Kiva is a San Francisco based group, that was created by Matt Flannery and Jessica Jackley in 2004, becoming an official non profit in 2005.

Today, Kiva is over 8 years old with no sign of slowing down or stopping. 

Kiva's Statistics  gives them a 98.94% repayment rate. Which then brings up the questions of micro-financing and how it works. 

The system with Kiva's loans is simple, when you make a loan on Kiva, 100% of your money is given to a field partner. Who help micro-finance on 5 continents, these partners help vet, administer and disperse each loan. 

You then receive updates about the loan that you funded, as well as the progress in the you provided.

Finally you get paid back. As your borrower earns money, they begin to pay back the loan that you provided them. As you get money back, you will be able to continue the cycle of loaning and repaying.

When you start lending money to a specific person there are multitudes of options available for who and what you can lend to. You can separate by gender, by groups and individuals. You can lend to support someones education, their store, or their agriculture. All these choices are based upon your preference.

Why I feel that Kiva is so important because it helps people with the idea of independence and self sufficiency. It gives people the opportunity and provide not only for themselves, but for their families. 

Self sufficiency is something that I know that I can be behind 100%. If there seems to be a common theme in which I give money to groups of people it all revolves around self sufficiency. I believe strongly in our abilities as humans, some would consider calling me a humanist. I'm still uncertain what it is that I would consider myself in my life. But in light of it all, it seems that a humanist is the closest thing that I can be.

To this group I'm going to lend to two different people, each with a lending of 25$. So this equals out to 50$.

I lend to two women, one living in the Philippines and the other living in India. 

The first person I lend to is, Mamata, a 26 year old mother of four who lives in West Bengal.

She owns a betel farm, and needed a loan to help buy fertilizer, straw, wood, bamboo and saplings to help continue on her farm. With hopes of providing for her family, and expanding her business.

Hoping to provide more for her family, Mamata is hoping to expand her family home beyond the mud and hay roof. Unfortunately most of Western Bengal is completely rain dependent, leading to food insecurity and and low income.

The second person that I lend to was Ginelyn, a mother living in Tacloban city, in the Philippines.                                                         She once owned a business and a house in Tacloban before Typhoon Haiyan. But after the typhoon, both were destroyed. With the loan provided she hopes to be able to buy building materials and help pay for construction costs to help rebuild her home. As well as help expand her business. 

In all of this people continue to wonder why it is that I donate to those underprivileged. Why do I insist on helping to homeless, the jobless, why do I pressure upon self sufficiency. But the answer is simple.

Self sufficiency is all about you. Your abilities, you traits, your ethic, your work. I have rarely met a homeless person who truly enjoys being homeless. I have never met an unemployed person who enjoys being unemployed. 

There is a sense of self empowerment when you are able to fend for yourself. There is empowerment in being able to provide for you, your family, and even others. At one point in most peoples lives we have been down and out. We've been kicked to the ground, and we've struggled to get back up. In those moments you learn who you really are, what kind of strength you really have. In those moments as well, you learn about the unequal kindness of the human heart. That kindness and a helping hand can come from those you don't even know. 

There was something I told my nephew a few weeks ago when someone was trying to be nice and he told them off. I told him, " Someday, you're going to have to depend on the kindness of strangers..." That is what I believe in. 

We as humanity can come together. But it takes some certain extremes for some, and a common interest for others. It takes something that I love, that others love and something I wholeheartedly believe in. Because maybe, deep down inside past the muck and all the issues I am a humanist. I believe in the human spirit, and our abilities to persevere. Which is where I stand in life. I believe in very little things regarding religion, but I don't let religion stop my ability to believe in humanity. 

So remember, regardless of race, sex, orientation, religion, skin color. Do not think about what makes us all different, but instead, what makes us all the same.

- Amanda

Donation #12: Equality

Recently in the past 5-6 months in my life I have been increasingly stressed out. All of my stress pertaining to my job, stay Full-time, go Part-time, move here, go there. How much will I lose per month, what will I lose in my benefits. Questions that have been knocking around in my brain for quite some time. Questions that created stress and at times strain in my relationship.

But why?

Because I felt that my job and the seriousness of the situation wasn't being handled properly. That everything was literally being shoved into a dark corner to be ignored until it was right on the brink.

But despite my hard work ethic and my assertive attitude, my desire to move away from my starting department was looking less and less likely. Which would result in what I would consider a very hard blow to my relationship.

Equality is something that women have been fighting for, for along time. Since the days of women's suffrage, to the feminist movement to modern days. As technology has been advancing, the internet is awash with opinions, stories and women everywhere learning their voice. Fighting violence with words, and at times trying to stand taller than those that would demean us.

So I figure, here's a story from a personal experience in my life involving equality.

I was 22, at a bar with my oldest sister in Sedro-Woolley, WA.

Earlier that night a guy and his friends left a table and let us have it. Two hours later, drunk off their asses they started harassing us and yelling at us for taking their table. I explained the situation to them, they didn't believe it. They thought because we have tits and an ass we can't take whatever we want.

My oldest sister just wanted to leave, and when trying to pay her bill was confronted by one of the larger men. He started cursing and threatening to hit her, and she told him, "You wouldn't be the first to do it, you'd be no different then my husband."

He laughed, looked her in the face and said, "Good, someone should be teaching you where you fucking stand."

She threw money on the table and ran out the door sobbing in the street, and I quickly followed behind. She told me about how she hated this town. How she just wanted to go home. But I didn't, because I had one thing to do.

I walked back into that bar, found the man that said that to my sister and shoved him into the ground. As he laid there on the ground, trying to understand what just happened I stood over him. All 5' 2" of me taking a man almost 6' to the ground. I stood over him and gave him the biggest lecture I ever gave to a man. I told him, " What gives you the right to threaten a woman, to beat a woman, or to curse one out. What makes you more of a man by hurting a woman? What gives YOU the god given right?" As I stood over him my hand bunched up into a fist ready to hit him as he threatened to do my sister I realized something.

He officially knew at that moment what it felt like to be a woman. To be on the ground, to see others towering above you, threatening you, and belittling you.

I was thrown out of that bar for the night after starting a bar fight. But in the end, it made me realize where we stood as women, not only in that town. But in many cities, states and countries around the world.

Equality for women is something of a largely renowned myth is what I've learned. Just as I've learned that there are many people out there that are willing to diminish the idea of equality.

Which then leads me to feminism. There are many kinds of feminists, but to most people all they see are the man haters, or the loud mouth bossy types. I see many women out there who are still trying to find their voices regarding feminism and their brand of it. I'm a feminist, I believe in equality in the workplace, I believe that women can be the lead protagonist in a film or book. I believe that women reserve the rights to choose for themselves in regards to their bodies. But at the same time I believe women should learn most importantly what is healthy for them. What is a healthy body image, what is a healthy self esteem, self worth, relationships, and most of all, how we dress and how that reflects us on the world.

I grew up a tomboy so all of my life I have always worn jeans and t-shirts. Even at the age of 24 I still wear the same kind of clothes that I've worn since I was a child. Why? Because I'm a different kind of feminist.  I'm my own brand of it. Some people believe in sexual empowerment, some believe it's sexually demeaning. I just like to wear comfy clothes because I feel that there are more important things in my world then standing in front of a closet for 30+ minutes planning out an outfit.


Which now leads me to the groups that I'm going to talk to you about.

The group that I will talk about is, Equality Now.

Equality Now was created in 1992 and advocates for the human rights of women and girls around the world. First by raising international visibility of individual cases of abuse. As well as wielding political pressure to ensure that governments enact or enforce laws and policies that uphold the rights of women and girls.

Their areas of focus are:

• Discrimination in Law.
• Sexual Violence.
• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
• Trafficking.

These areas are the main focus because upwards of 70% of women in some countries will experience violence in their lifetimes.

One billion women and girls are affected by violence worldwide. Including rape, domestic violence, acid-burning, dowry deaths, 'honor' killings, human trafficking, female genital mutilation and other practices.

Equality Now has done a number of things to help improve girls and women's rights in over 20 years since they started. Through legal advocacy, the raising of global awareness of human rights violations, by promotion activism and supporting grass root non profits aimed at focused areas.

They have lead trafficking laws and the ending of sex tourism in New York, Hawaii and some US run sex tourism companies that worked outside the US.

They called for better investigations and prosecution of crimes involving sexual violence. This includes campaigns against rape, abduction and forced marriages in Ethiopia, Kyrgyzstan and other countries. As well helping institute laws against incest in Pakistan.

Taking on Female Genital Mutilation by advocating FGM is persecution under refugee law allowing someone to be granted asylum within the US. As well as campaigning to end this practice within the United States. And campaigning internationally to help end this practice and sentence those breaking anti-FGM laws.

Taking on difficult issues, such as campaigning for the release of an Iranian woman sentenced to be stoned to death. After advocacy it was reduced to 100 lashes, but after further campaigning, she was released from prison. Equality Now also issued an action to ban rape simulation games in Japan. The campaign led Amazon Japan and the makers of the game to withdraw it from sale. The international attention also pressured the Japanese Government to begin addressing loopholes in child pornography laws.

But that's not all. In 2000, Equality Now opened their Nairobi office with
a region-wide consultative meeting of African women's groups.

And in 2005, they opened their London office with a global meeting on women in the media.

With their mission being:

To achieve legal and systemic change that addresses violence and discrimination against women and girls worldwide. 

Then it is no wonder that in about 22 years they've been able to have more than 35,000 people in their action network in over 160 countries.

You can read more about their work here.

Equality Now, also gained some headlines because of Joss Whedon's support, and the Charity Can't Stop the Serenity. A group that since 2006, has organized screenings of Serenity to raise funds and awareness to support Equality Now. Since 2006 has raised $900,000+ and raising $102,004.80 for Equality Now.

There are a number of things that you can do to support Equality Now.

• You can Take Action.
• You can Support, through fundraisers, selling on Ebay or donating stock.
• You can Shop. Ensuring that what you purchase's money will be used.
• You can Join. 
• Or simply Donate. 

To Equality Now, I will be donating 100$

So I end on this. Equality is something that we all must strive for. Whether it's the 99%, marriage equality, adoption equality, minimum wage raises and women's equality. We strive and fight constantly over the idea of equality. And frankly in my idea of feminism, I'm tired of women getting death threats for protecting their rights. For protecting themselves from harm only to have it thrown in their face.

We all have the right to freedom, to being safe, and being free from harm. But I grew up around violence, I lived with it, I accepted it and I have pushed it down in my heart. 1 in 3 women will be sexually assaulted in their life time. 1 in 4 girls will be sexually assaulted, as will 1 in 10 boys.

Equality is something that shouldn't be a dream somewhere down the pipeline. Equality is reality, and sooner than later, misogyny will be swept away by overwhelming support. That someday, a woman will stand her ground to others and not care what they think, but only care what she knows and what she loves.

For in my life, I have been sexually assaulted, I have been threatened, beaten up, robbed, and abused by those that loved me.

I have seen my sister being struck, I have heard her being threatened, I have seen her children being beaten. Each time I stepped in, each time I hid her away when she received death threats, each time I stood between her and him. Each time I spoke up the moment his hand would raise up.

Because what happened to me, made me stronger, and more defensive to those that I love. Being raped made me fight more for women. Being beaten made me stronger for their voice, being robbed made me fight back.

In my life, any man who condones a woman being beaten, abused, threatened, intimidated, belittled and otherwise demeaned. Is no man, and belongs back in the dark ages that this mind cannot seem to escape. And I will no longer stand for it.

Continue to fight ladies, we are worth each and every campaign, every advocacy, every letter to a governor.

- <3 Amanda

Donation #11: PANDAS!

It has recently occurred to me that I have so far done 10 different kinds of donations to many, many kinds of non profits. But it finally hit me that I haven't ONCE did a blog about the cuddly, and down right adorable panda.

Pandas have always been an absolute favorite of mine. They're cuddly, fuzzy and just as cute as a button! They've been a symbol of many non profit organizations and the center of much attention for zoos and reserves everywhere.

I love pandas so much that I decided to go back to World Of Warcraft JUST so I can play as a Pandaren, or as I like to call them, Panda People.

But Pandas are more than just icons in our modern world. They're endangered, with only estimates of 1,600 in the wild. China has taken more measures to ensure that this creature survives. Raising their reserves to 50 compared to their previous 13. Helping raise Panda awareness and their reproduction in captivity between reserves and zoos all over the world.

Which is where I'm starting with this blog, learning about these adorable creatures and the organizations that are looking to save them.

The first group that I will be looking at is Pandas International.

Pandas International or PI, is a Colorado based organization that is dedicated to the idea of helping preserve these wonderful creatures. 

How this group first started was in 1999 when Suzanne Braden and Diane Rees visited the Wolong Panda Center in China. Upon their return they co-founded the non profit. 

Mrs. Braden continues as the Director of Pandas international, where she coordinates with the annuals and immediate needs of panda centers in China. Through her position she's been able to develop a relationship with Chinese officials, veterinarians, and staff members to help Pandas International to maximize their role in preservation. 

Pandas International's mission is thus.

To ensure the preservation and propagation of the endangered Giant Panda. By providing public awareness and education. Support of research, habitat preservation and enhancement, and assistance to Giant Panda Centers.

Pandas International Goals is a large list. But more then capable of being accomplished with help they'll be able to accomplish such a list. Their goals include a few things, such as:

- Aid efforts to reintroduce pandas into the wild in order to diversify the gene pool.

- Assist in helping build a new Wolong Panda Center and Center for Disease Control in Dujianyan.

Pandas International puts donations into several programs that they fund. These programs include:

- Medical Supplies and equipment

- Captive breeding programs

- Reintroduction programs

- Environment enrichment program

- Bamboo reforestation program

Each and every one of these programs helps ensure the survival and propagation of the Panda in both captivity and in the wild. While also ensuring that these animals get the much needed attention that they need and produce for other animals that are also endangered.

When you put up a Panda, people will search for other endangered species. Learn about numbers, declines, and population losses. People will learn of the numerous species that live in one family, and how many have been lost so far. People will learn about habitat loss, illegal trading, poaching, and in general the things we do as humans. People will look inward to themselves and as a species and ask, when will we stop?

Pandas are an international symbol of recovery. Of an endangered species along with numerous others (Tigers, Polar bears, Elephants) that has the chance and opportunity to thrive. IF we let them, IF we are there to help fix the damage that we have done.

You can do a number of things for Pandas International if you wish to donate.

- You can Adopt a Panda. Each panda costs $600.00 to adopt. You'll receive a personalized adopation certificate, a poster, newsletters, updates and photos of your panda. As well as a free visit to the Wolong and Bifengxia panda reserves.

- You can visit their Online Shop. To purchase gifts and items that will help support Pandas International and their work.

- Or you can simply Donate and amount that you feel is right.

To Pandas International I will be donating $40 

The second group that I will be donating to is well know, and very much famous for it's campaigns and it's opinions. The second group I'm donating to is the WWF or World Wildlife Fund.

WWF is helping with Panda populations with more conventional means. By working with local government they are helping both the animals and the people in these areas.

Since 1980 WWF has been active int he giant panda conservation, and was the first organization to with in China. 

- They have helped create new reserves, by helping with the logging ban introduced in 1998. Helping restore more habitat for pandas to roam, and breed in.

- They've created bamboo corridors between wilderness to help Pandas in the wild find mates, and food. So far WWF has created 10 corridors in Qinling and Minshan.

WWF has also made a number of programs for People to ensure the continued survival of pandas with communities.

By helping give communities more opportunities for survival it reduces the hunting of wildlife, illegal logging and poaching as a means of survival. Instead, with these other opportunities available communities will be able to sell their goods to a global market, ensuring proper supply and demand. As well as opening up more job opportunities that are also sustainable.

They also promote Alternative Energy  compared to previous wood burning stoves. WWF has provided households with wood-saving stoves. Yes, wood-saving stoves, stoves that can save up to 1,100 kg of firewood a year. Which means less wood being cut down for stoves, and less habitat destruction. Another alternative energy that they promote is biogas. By collecting the manure of the pigs that are kept locally it produces enough energy to cook 3 meals a day and keep a home warm for 10 months out of the year.

 Training people to patrol panda habitat, between 1996 and 2000 WWF trained more than 300 panda reserve staff in nature reserve management, wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrolling and many others. 

They have also created a program that teaches local people how to protect panda habitat without compromising economic livelihood. By training sustainable logging methods, introdu

cing income generating opportunities such as ecotourism and raising awareness about conservation.

WWF as well covers many other kinds of animals and locations that all need support. So if you're interested in helping WWF here's what you can do.

- You can Adopt a Panda or anything else you love. Usually starting at $50 you get a plushy, an adoption certificate and a gift bag.
- You can visit their Gift Center and get an assortment of gifts.
- You can Become a Member, with a monthly donation.
- Become a Conservation Partner. Which is reserved for people that make contributions annually of $1,000 or more.
- Or simply, Donate. With a one time donation you can maximize your donation by not receiving a thank you gift. Or you can choose one of the three thank you gifts that are available. You can chose any amount that you see fit.


To WWF I will be donating $50.

Hoping one day to be able to contribute more to these two groups as they grow, and as I grow.

So far in my life I have always loved many things, pandas, tigers, wolves, dogs, cats, birds and turtles. I fear the creepy crawly and the slimy but I see a use and importance for almost all creatures. Something I'm starting to notice, is slowly becoming harder and harder to try and instill in others, especially those younger.

The way I've always seen it is as such. When were children we care about alot of things, ourselves, others, being good, doing right and helping. But as we get older we stop caring about anything outside the immediate vicinity of ourselves. When we're teenagers it's literally impossible for us to care for something outside ourselves, our friends, our grades and our families. Half the time we don't even care about the last two, it's all somehow circumstantial to us.

But as we get older, as we experience more, as we learn more we gain back that empathy. Where we put it at that point is entirely up to us. People put it towards essential human rights, feminism, freedom of speech, gun control. Whatever it is that they seem to be passionate about. Some people put it in words, only arguing their ideas, and sharing it with the world. While others put their actions into play. Because there is something that I've learned in life so far in only 24 years. People can listen to you until you go blue in the face, but it is action that usually changes peoples opinions and minds.

Which is where I'm starting in my life of 2014. Of continuing to do more for organizations both locally and abroad. Because I don't feel that opinions or minds will be changed by words alone.

Helping change hearts and minds.

- Amanda.

Donation #10: Elephants

It's well past the new years here in Washington and alot has happened in these past weeks. Seattle, and most of Washington is waking up in a collective hang over. Seattle is going to the superbowl, the second time we've ever been there and so far the internet has literally exploded with both joy and criticism. Something alittle expected from us, so then what do we have to fear anymore. We made it, and that's all I care about.

My voice is hoarse, my throat hates most food and my eyes are...actually awake. I awaken to a new day here in Seattle, and looking towards to news of what the 12th man did last night to soon grace my news feed.

But outside of that, Washington is slowly digging itself out of the winter slump of super cold and super damp to just cold and damp with random pockets of sunshine. A good sign for us and the ongoing new years of what we have to look forward to.

As the year begins there is much to consider, and where we are right now is no difference. Recently in the past few months I've been trying harder with making my ends meet, while still providing donations to wonderful groups. Slowly in time I've been paying off debts that have accumulated in the past years. Because of that, I've become slightly more enlightened towards money and truly the effect that it has.

Which brings me to this blog posting and the reasoning behind it.

This blog posting is about raising awareness and more love for the large and in charge elephant.

Outside what I've learned from the zoo and what I generally remember from biology classes, I don't know much about elephants. Which is one of the many things that triggered my interest in covering a posting about such creatures.

My other interest was in painting them, by painting I can get a feel for the animal and in turn gain more an interest. Something that has spurred me on to learning more about the great non profit and what they do for the case of the elephant.

The group that I will be writing about is the International Elephant Foundation or IEF.

IEF is a Texas based on profit group that focuses it's attention on research, conservation and education in both Africa and Asia, to help support the preservation of these species.

IEF ensures that 90+% of each dollar donated goes straight to a program.

IEF was Created in 1998 by Michael Fouraker, Executive Director of the Fort Worth Zoo. Once a successful member of the IRF (International Rhino Foundation) he was frustrated by the lack of funding made available for elephant conservation programs. Believing that the template of IRF could be used for multiple elephant facilities to contribute to the long-term preservation of elephants.

IEF's Mission is to, support and operate elephant conservation and education programs in managed facilities and in the wild, with emphasis on management, protection and scientific research.

Since 1998 IEF has provided support to over 80 elephant conservation programs worldwide and $2 million dollars in direct financial assistance. These programs are in both Asia and Africa, helping support patrols against the ivory trade in Africa to conservation efforts in SE Asia.

Their programs are as such.

In Africa, there are a number of programs that are supported by this group including:

Mounted patrols that take daily patrols throughout forest reserves in Kenya and adjoining areas. Helping reduce poaching for both elephants and smaller animals in these reserves. The money provided also helped supply the horses for patrols, as well as the housing made available for the horses and the continued funding for this program. The mounted patrol removes snares and eve assists in arrests involving poaching in the forest reserve.

The Park Protection and Training Program in Zambia, which assisted Game Rangers International with a boat that is used to patrol Lake Itezhi Tezhi, helping to reduce the access that poachers have to the lake and its forest reserve in Zambia.

My Elephant Neighbor is an education program created to help ensure that children are exposed to elephants in a positive manner. Ensuring that the children of today will hopefully be the conservationists of tomorrow. Programs such as these help ensure that children appreciate these creatures and gain intimate knowledge of these animals and their habitat.

IEF supports many anti-poaching projects all over Africa, ensuring that the poaching and illegal trade of ivory stops.

In Asia they have a number of programs designed to ensure the protection of elephants that are used for both tourism and logging.

Through DEAR or Domesticated Elephant Advanced Registration, a program initiated in Laos where 460 elephants are apart of the domesticated population. By creating an computerized elephant registry it enables the best healthcare, registration and employment for both elephants and their owners. While logging all of the health issues an elephant has had and all the accidents that have occurred. They are also looking towards micro chipping the entire domesticated population, making for easier management. Something that 5 out of 13 elephant range countries has accomplished so far.

They also have funded the Kouprey Express Program, an education program outreach to rural schoolchildren and communities in Cambodia. By helping change peoples opinion

ns of Elephants and their relationship with humans, and how to work towards conservation efforts. By providing children with first-hand experiences with rescued Asian elephants.

In the 153 days spent in Koh Kong Province focusing on 23 target schools and communities. 85 classes were taught with 2,37 students between 4th to 6th grade and 175 teachers. There were 9 field excursions to the wildlife refuge center with 500 students, 50 teachers and 50 community members. With also 1,308 grade 1-3 students participating in art-based environmental curriculum, tree planting and other environmental education activities.

 They also help fund research projects to help aid in the fight to TB or Tuberculosis, disease that effects both captive and wild elephants. By sharing information and collaborate on detecting, diagnosing, treating and ultimately reducing the impact of this disease.

Research is also being used to try and understand as well as help cure EEHV or Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesviruses. Which is the leading cause of reproductive failure as well as neonatal and juvenile deaths in Asian elephants. Something that I feel that Seattle and Washington has known all too well.

In the year 2000 I remember that we had our first ever born baby elephant born to the Woodland Park Zoo. I remember watching the news, hearing about zoo attendance, and the naming competition. I remember very little about the news regarding the elephants, but I remember the name Hansa. I remember the day she was born and the day she died, only 6 1/2 years later in 2007. Only 4 days before I graduated.

It was later discovered that Hansa had died from a new strain of herpes, one that didn't warrant the regular symptoms that is apparent in elephants with herpes.  Out of the 18 cases of herpes that have been reported since 1983 only 3 have survived in North America. Something that young elephants under the age of 10 are at greater risk of contracting.

This disease does so much damage to elephants and is deadly in most instances. Which is the reason why there is such a high need to try and cure this disease. For it is in both captive and wild elephants, hindering their abilities to reproduce and keep a sustainable population and away from endangerment.

If you're looking to Donate to this group you can do a few things as well.

You can choose a Level of support.
Or you can simply Donate. Nothing too grandiose, just cut and dry like that.

For the benefit of trying to donate more I painted an elephant in hopes to try an raise more money for this organization. To say the least it worked.

I painted an elephant and sold it for $50 allowing more money to be put towards the conservation efforts in Africa. 

From my own money I will be donating $40 hoping that someday we can help cure this horrible disease that effects so many captive and wild elephants around the world. 

In hopes for the future.

- Amanda.

Donation #9: Snow Leopards

It's New Years Eve here in Washington and a lot of things has happened to us in the past week. Seattle Seahawks have become NFC champions, and we've all survived the awkwardness and stress that follows the holidays. Roads are starting to clear as people realize that they're not in that big of a rush to go anywhere.

A new year brings new possibilities for everyone, and the quick closing of one chapter of life to the next one. As I remember someone once saying, "This chapter will end, and another 365 day chapter will begin. Be sure to start it off right."

For most people it's setting up resolutions that they'll struggle to keep all year. Whether it's eat healthier, exercise more, or to care less. We set ourselves up for failure almost half the time, which is why resolutions are so damnably hard to keep.

But my new years resolution is just the same as my mission here. Give more, take less, help others.

Which is where my newest posting comes in.

Snow Leopards.

When I think of these cats I'm met with an equal fascination. Mostly in their abilities and how they behave.

Big cats have always been an interest of mine. Mostly just the general state of their nature, their habitat and the means of survival. Big cats, including snow leopards have always been something I hope to understand more.

Hopefully just like me, you have an affinity for these wonderful solitary creatures and hope to do more in the future, resolution or not.

In the past I have supported a few big cat groups, namely Wildcat Sanctuary and Safe Haven Rescue Zoo. But with this blog I will be introducing two more groups that are looking to save not only this creature, but many others.

The first group that I'm going to talk about is Snow Leopard Trust.

The Snow Leopard Trust is a Seattle based group that works in 5 of the 12 countries where snow leopards are found. But in these 5 countries, they contain over 75% of the worlds population of wild snow leopards. The countries that they work in are China, India, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia and Pakistan. 

Snow Leopard Trust covers many things with their conservation programs. Each conservation unique to the areas in which they work. 

In  Mongolia they work side by side with people living in the Snow Leopards environment to help create a sustainable economic opportunities to help reduce poaching. This program helps families in financial hardship, that also helps families make more money and to turn away from illegal poaching for financial support.

All items that are created by these families are then sold at a mutually agreed upon price and then sold through their online store. This program drastically increases the money earned for each families income up to 40%.

In other areas like India, they set up a Livestock Insurance program. A program that a community maintains a pool of money that is specifically designated to reimburse families who lose domestic animals due to snow leopards. This program provides funding requires to build a strong financial foundation that eventually becomes self-sustaining.

To participate, each herder must sign a conversation agreement, pledging to protect the snow leopard and wild prey species in their area from poaching. If a member violates the contract, they are no longer able to participate in the insurance program.

There is also an added incentive, a small annual bonus is given out to the herder that has lost the fewest animals to predators. As well as setting aside graze free areas, which helps promote the the use by the snow leopards wild prey and a decrease in livestock loss.

Although a loss of space for livestock can create a hardship, this program works with community leaders to give adequate compensation, which is paid separately from the insurance fund. All of these efforts mounted together help reduce retribution killings caused by loss of livestock and in time help create financial stability for herders and their families.

Their other programs include conservation education programs, camera studies, genetic research, and long-term ecological studies.

Snow Leopard Trusts' mission is thus.

• Understanding snow leopard behavior and habitat
• Listening to the community to identify needs.
• Seeking resources for sustaining long-term programs.

When looking at Snow leopard Trusts' financials you will see that in 2012 they received Charity Navigators credited 4 stars. With a majority of your donation going towards those essential programs.

So if you're looking to Give. There are a number of things that you can do.

• You can make a donation, entering any amount you feel or starting at 25$, at this moment all donations will be doubled, up to $1,000.

• You can Adopt a snow leopard, starting at 25$ that gives you a certificate and
  
  a snow leopard fact sheet.
• You can shop. Helping support not only conservation efforts for snow leopards. But helping create economic stability for families participating in this program.
• You can Volunteer, no matter where you are.
• Pledge monthly donations for 'Team Snow Leopard.'
• Or you can give at work, partner, or bequest.

To this group I will be donating 30$. To continue with their conservation efforts, research and continued work regarding financial hardship in other regions.

This is a group I would like to hear more about, and since in the Seattle area. A group that I will be able to work with personally in the future.

The second group that I will be looking at is the WCN, or Wildlife Conservation Network. 

WCN is a Los Altos, CA based company. One that has earned Charity Navigators 4 star accreditation and received top wildlife charity by Charity Navigator as well. 

What WCN does is a number of things for various groups and projects, currently their programs:

• Develop skills for individual conservationists; such as strategic planning, marketing and accounting. 
• Leveraging Conservation expertise, cross-partner visit program which exchanges information between conservationists from children's education programs to camera trapping. as well as continuing communication between conservationists virtually throughout the year.
•  The WCN scholarship program, which invests in the next generation of conservationists. So far the WCN has awarded 48 scholarships to promising conservationists from 22 countries. 
• Building collaborations, by building relationships with groups worldwide that can offer skills or services to enhance the conservationists work. WCN invests in opportunities for their partners to participate in inititaves such as training program to jump start the careers of talented young leaders, and the Conservation Strategy Fund, which provides conservation economics analyses and training courses. 
• Finally their Solar Project created in 2006. A project created to provide solar energy to conservation projects around the world. Combining cutting-edge technology with wildlife conservation and sustainable environmental practices. To date there are 24 systems to 10 conservation projects in 7 countries.

The WCN doesn't take this task lightly either. With the money they identify, qualify and invest int he growth and development of leading independent wildlife conservationists around the world. They also give donors the opportunity to get to know conservationists they support through events, field visits and firsthand updates on their work. By creating a 100% donation model, 100% of your donation will be used when you give to a specific WCN- supported animal. Ensuring that 100% of your money will be used in the field of conservation.

You can learn more about WCN under the Why section.

At the WCN their efforts are to save endangered species in 24 countries around the world. Ranging from the Cotton-top Tamarin in Colombia to the Saiga Antelope in Uzbekistan. You read more about their programs and animals here.

With several conservation funds to large cats, and small cats the choice is difficult, but in my case this choice is the easiest. 

Continuing on with my love for the Snow Leopard I will be making a donation to the Snow Leopard Conservancy.

This program takes a rather unique approach to conservation, by creating eco-tourism in these areas. It helps benefit locals and create the perception that this endangered animal can create an economic opportunities for those living below the poverty line. 

This program also helps create an insurance fund for those who lose livestock to snow leopards, and help community members learn how to save money and earn interest. Earning an extra amount of funding towards snow leopard conservation activities.

Finally, creating livestock protection for those living in the territory of the Snow Leopard. By creating predator proof corrals with herders, it lowers the loss of livestock each year, thus reducing revenge killing of such animals. They also provide information on improved animal husbandry and guarding practices. 

To get involved, and do more you can.

• Become an Associate or a Partner.
• You can Volunteer.
• Become a Guest Speaker.
• Or simply Donate, to any animal you wish, any amount you feel is possible. 

To this group I will also be donating $30. To help their continued efforts to help these wonderful, and mysterious creatures.

So in conclusion, I have donated $60 total to these two wonder organizations, and I hope that you have learned as much about these groups as I have. 

I hope that we can all continue to support and do more for the things that we love in this upcoming year.

Here's to 2014, hoping it to be the most informative, creative, exploration driven year so far. 

Here's to it, and to you all as well.

- Amanda.

Donations: 'Tis The Season.

It's December and there's a chill in the air here in the United States. No one so far is safe from the onslaught of cold except Florida and Hawaii. But if you live in the other 48 states you'll realize that with this cold there comes alot of things.

People have shorter attention spans and a sense of patience. It's expected when your temperatures are dipping into the teens. But with this time of year there is a sense of giving and community that unites us all.

We all look upon Christmas in a more generous light. According to a survey, 57% of the respondents donate to a charity in some way over the holidays. 46% make a monetary donation directly to an organization, 64% donate to a third party, like a bell ringer or at the checkout counter. 24% buy gifts through an adopt-a-family program or various others. 63% donate household and nonperishable food items. While 22% donate through volunteering.

The average person makes 24% of all their donations between Thanksgiving and New Years according to the Center on Philanthropy. Network for Good also reported that the average donation is higher in the holidays: in 2010 the average donation was 142$ versus an average of 91$ that year. If you want to see what the donating forecast is this year read this.

Because people are more willing and giving during the holidays, it is becoming more and more difficult to figure out who and what to donate to.

Honestly, the most important things to look for when you donate to groups or an organization is.

1. What it is you want to donate to. If you donate to something that you feel passionate about. Something you truly want to invest in with little to no return that is better then making a quick pick in a department. So figure out what it is you want to donate to. Whether it is animals, homelessness, food banks, or social works. Knowing what it is that you're passionate about is the most difficult thing you can learn. So explore the possibilities, whether it's domestic works or international.

and

2. It's rating, you can look up a certain charities rating via Charity Navigator. But remember to look past the rating. A charity may have a good rating, but it may not have the kind of strategy that you want to see implemented. Or it doesn't cover the area that you want to see your money go towards. So, when you find it, google it and sift through all the details and I mean ALL of them. From finances, to office corporations or administrative staff.

It's your money remember, so sniff it out and give it a feel before you decide to put in an investment. If you need any inspiration or knowledge on any previous organizations that I've covered sift on through.

But for me this year I will be doing more than my usual rabble.

This year in Life Through Donations I have already.

Donated several boxes of food to our local food bank Northwest Harvest.

I have also participated in my companies annual adopt-a-family. This year we had 5 families to choose from, all in which a member had an affliction of some kind. Out of all the groups I chose to adopt the single mother of 3 children. The reason why I chose this was because she has stage 4 breast cancer.

Breast Cancer is a terrible thing, something that I know my family feels very close to because of how it has affected us.

My grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer over 4 years ago and my aunt was diagnosed about a year ago. So getting the chance to help someone with the same affliction as my grandmother and aunt was my immediate reason why I signed up.

As well as donated almost 500$ to wonderful non profit groups both locally and internationally.

This year has given me a greater appreciation of the human spirit. No matter the situation, we as a species try our hardest to make the best of any situation. We fight, we quarrel, and we try our best to provide for ourselves, and those we love.

This year was filled with reflection on my life, and the understanding that sometimes peoples lives aren't perfect. Sometimes we don't come from the best backgrounds, or from the best families, or the most money. But it isn't the past that defines us anymore, it is what we've learned from the past and what we do in the future that will define us. Because of this experience I've learned to accept the things that have happened in my life and give myself closure.

In this experience I've grown from someone who was so caught up in my day to day life of bills and stress. To being someone who is invested in the human spirit, and in helping the very condition of human nature and the nature of the world. Becoming more of a philanthropist as my work continues on.

My work has spread from just one or two groups to several, both locally and internationally. It has helped me solidify my work and my abilities to try and give back more for each organization that I wish to assist. Which has created my brain child Painting Donations. A little shop that I'm slowly trying to understand, and hopefully move up. Each painting that I sell goes an benefits a non-profit that represent that animal. Either a sanctuary, breeding programs or wildlife preservation.

In my several months I have created so many projects, and have so many seen so many different experiences that I wish to someday experience myself. It has taught me the importance of the need for exploration, in ones talents and in the world itself.

So I'm hoping after this year and into 2014, I wish to become more, explore more, share more and experience more. I wish to travel more, learn more, and contribute more
into this world. Hopefully, on the route that I'm on and continuing I will be able to bring more into my world, and into this world online.

Have a happy and safe holidays.

- Amanda.