FreeMe

This organization is a super connection for anyone who loves animals and wants to help an organization that is doing a lot for South African small wildlife. Essentially, they rescue, and then release safely, small wildlife - birds, mammals and any other smallish creatures - that fall into harm's way in South Africa.

This summer we visited FreeMe (in Johannesburg South Africa) and were VERY impressed. Such a group of leaders, communicators, and passionate "doers", we have rarely met! We had a lovely tour, and then spent hours talking to some of their key people about their situation and dreams.

 Some of the current enclosures

We were simply amazed by the chemistry and commitment this group of people have put together. If you want to contribute in some way to this organization, we feel very secure in recommending them. 

We visited the new property that they have purchased and we've seen their building plans to relocate and expand the abilities of their work. Their current location has some limitations that need to be addressed in a big way. It looks like they have great potential, if the funding can be generated.

 

This organization puts A LOT of emphasis on educating and awareness. They had some lovely stories of successful programs they run regularly.

We would also give them an "A" for their interest and ability to connect with their donors. We are finding this kind of "donor connection" to be unique. So if you want a meaningful relationship with an organization.... Something that feels very "personal",... this group will suit you. They send me a "photo of the week", of one of their rescued, that is always heart-warming. They have great communication lines and are responsive to personal inquires.

 Their new property

Their website is terrific and can give you a better idea of the importance of their work. They have so many compelling photos and individual wildlife stories. Check it out at www.FreeMeWildlife.org.za

From their own website.....


What is FreeMe ?

 

FreeMe is a rehabilitation centre for indigenous wildlife based in the north of Johannesburg. It was founded in 1997 by a group of trained rehabilitators who realised that there was not enough organised care for suburban indigenous wildlife. Click here for company information.

Suburban wildlife is in crisis

 

Each year thousand of birds, mammals and reptiles living in gardens or suburbs become orphaned, sick or suffer injuries. Most veterinarians do not have facilities to cater for wildlife, leaving would-be rescuers unable to determine what to do with them. FreeMe has filled this gap. The public can now bring wildlife to us for specialised treatment, care and rehabilitation until they can be released.

We are staffed and operated by a full-time manager, two support staff members and a group of trained volunteers. The centre is open seven days a week from 8am to 5pm and we welcome calls from the public asking for advice and support.

Free Me staff, back, from left: morning receptionist Jenni McLean, support staff Jabu Ncube and Claudius Sibanda; front left afternoon receptionist Tariro Kapenzi and right senior animal manager Nicci Wright.

FreeMe relies on members of the public to bring compromised animals to the centre, and for notification if there are wild animals in distress. In emergencies such as oil-spills volunteers may travel to a locality to rescue and assist wildlife.

There is no conservation without education

We strive to promote a responsible attitude to wildlife and the environment through education programmes, newsletters, publicity and advice. Volunteers continuously learn new skills and knowledge through contact with similar organisations and experts in the field. Our quarterly FreeMe Magazine, with its 'Kids' Talk' section, is designed to entertain while spreading awareness of wildlife and conservation. We participate in the School Owl Box Project run by Eco-Solutions, which aims to create owl friendly and aware children and communities through education and awareness by setting up hacking boxes for owlets at various schools. This highly successful project (for man and wildlife) is the brainchild of Jonathan Haw, our raptor advisor.