Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I work at a pet store in Columbia, SC. Today I am putting up a jar to collect donations in the memory of Steve Irwin. I don't expect it will be a lot but I think many people would give something. Does anyone have suggestions of where to send the money? I was going to donate to either a local zoo or national wildlife or something. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Michael Simmons

if it's for steve, why not send it to the fund discovery is going to start for his zoo and children?
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http://www.wildlifewarriors.org.au/

Because the Irwin's Australia Zoo pays for all overhead and administration costs, 100% of your donation goes directly to animals and conservation.

My wife and I are donating.
http://www.wildlifewarriors.org.au/

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Paul Snyder
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My suggestion would be to use the money locally. A local project would best reflect what people view Steve's legacy to have been, that is education and conservation. These things are needed everywhere. Find a local educational, rehab, or conservational project for your donations. Such a project will no doubt GREATLY appreciate any help it can get. You will get more donations if you list the target project on the donation jar so people know where the money is going. I am not familiar with wildlife warriors but Steve reportedly left behind personal assets in the neighborhood of 40 million dollars. I do not know what that will amount to after the lawyers and bean counters get through but I expect his family will be financially secure. I imagine their zoo should continue to do well on its own. I do not know its financial structuring but I understand it is progressive and self sufficient.

You make a good point about contributing to local animal causes.
Another way to carry on Steve's legacy is to volunteer at local animal shelters like "Free To Live" or "Second Chance". I've worked with Second Chance in the past and these places can always use help. Just like wild animals, domestic animals are all too often abandoned and forgotten. And of course, giving to wildlife sanctuaries and rescues is a great way to show support.
Every bit helps.
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Paul Snyder
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Thanks to all who replied to my post. We actually decided to collect money and donate to a semi-local reptile rescue/rehabilitation known as Roark's Reptile Safari in North Charleston. We currently have two pet stores in Columbia collecting, but it is my intention this week to get more of the cities pet stores involved.

Thanks,
Michael Simmons