Volunteer at Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Africa

Located on the edge of a lush forest in Cameroon (west-central Africa), Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Rescue provides sanctuary for 78 orphaned chimpanzees who are survivors of the illegal bushmeat and pet trade. Volunteers are needed throughout the year to assist with day-to-day operations of the sanctuary and to pitch in wherever needed most.

Tasks include but are not limited to:

• assisting with daily chimpanzee feedings
• washing, cutting & distributing fruit/vegetables
• maintaining camp equipment & painting cages
• buying food & supplies in town
• helping care for baby chimps IFneeded
• working with Cameroonian staff (most speak French)

Limited contact with chimpanzees of all ages occurs during 4 daily feedings, after one month of training. Sometimes there is a need for volunteers to help care for rescued baby chimps prior to their integration, if any are in care at the time (no guarantee).

Qualifications:

• Minimum 21 yrs and paid work experience
• Fluent in English; basic conversational French a definite plus
• Good general health and physical stamina; able to lift up to 35 lbs
• Able to adapt easily to changing tasks/schedules and to basic living conditions in an isolated setting

Salary/funding: This is an unpaid position; however lodging and food for vegetarian meals are provided at the site, as is transportation between Yaoundé and the site. Other expenses (flights, visa, vaccinations, etc.) are paid by the volunteer. If accepted as a volunteer, there is a one-time sliding fee scale based on length of stay: US $300 for 6 month stays; US $600 for 5-6 month stays; US $800 for 4-5 month stays; US $1000 for 3-4 month stays.

Applications are accepted throughout the year. Please visit our website for more information (https://www.sychimprescue.org) and email rebecca@sanaga-yong.org to request an application.

SYCR offers an unforgettable opportunity to live and work in close proximity to a number of amazing animals!