Volunteer Blog: Claudia

I would first like to briefly introduce myself. I am Claudia, 58 years old and live and work in Germany (Mainz a. Rhein). I currently spend 4 weeks of my vacation days per year in a different country and with a different focus on animal and/or species conservation projects. I select the projects after extensive research or recommendations… and in October 2024 my call led me to Ara Manzanillo.

I have only been back from my volunteer work at Ara Manzanillo for few weeks and I really miss the macaws and other animals, the people and the wonderful nature.

I am thrilled with how much commitment this - in comparison small team - has achieved such great successes in the protection and reintroduction of the red-listed great green macaws over the last 10 years and I am happy and proud, even for to have been part of this team for a short time.

My - mostly younger - colleagues have already written a lot in their blogs about the tasks and challenges during their time as volunteers (... and yes, at the age of 58, I also made it up an 18 m high tree... 😉 - I have a selfie forgotten because I was too enthusiastic about those who welcomed me upstairs – look the shots I took!)

I would like to take the opportunity to use my blog to address every single person who doubts and perhaps asks themselves, can I do this, can I be helpful, am I able to really make a difference...?

And I say YES! I was able to experience that (despite certain restrictions) I definitely had the feeling that I was doing something worthwhile. Each and every one of us can contribute to animal and/or species protection even with small steps. Each with their competence and love and their own personal gifts. (If you are still unsure just ask the team for the best time / season for you.)