Volunteering at Alturas Sanctuary was a life-altering experience. It provided hands-on work (picking up poop, cleaning cages, doing more laundry than I ever would have expected, building toys, and feeding and transporting animals); education (about wildlife, the greater environment, and other ways of life); and fun (roaming around with other volunteers on days off, attending a concert, etc.). The environment was professional, safe, and comfortable (albeit be ready for some spiders and cold water showers).
The staff are overwhelmingly genuine, caring whole-heartedly about the well-being of the animals, while still taking the time to ensure that the volunteers weren't forgotten. The vet (Laura) would often share stories and answer questions during breaks - get to know her if you're logical, she's one of the coolest people I've ever encountered.
The animals are just as memorable. You'll build friendships quickly, and refer to them by name. I don't think I'll ever forget them.
My 3-week stay was during the busiest time of year, amid many changes (lack of dedicated coordinator, new volunteer house construction, etc.). This meant less organization, but going with the flow is all part of the Central American lifestyle. Although I found that some others had minor complaints, escalated items were addressed. The staff is there to help.
Be aware that the program is relatively new, but established. I expect that it will continue to develop. The owner shared goals regarding future projects, which I have high hopes for. While I'm extremely grateful for the experience I've already had, I'm definitely hoping to return.
It isn't a vacation; it's better. Go alone. Make friends (with people and animals). And use free time as an opportunity to learn and build relationships with those around you. It will change your life.
Response from Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary
Hello,
thank you for your comments. We appreciate all comments from the volunteers and try to use them to improve our program. As you were aware our volunteer coordinator suffered a serious accident, breaking to vertebrates in her back, just prior to your arrival. This caused some issues as we needed to try and fill that gap. Unfortunately our new coordinator did not arrive during your visit which did cause some problems during your stay. It was also the busiest time of the season for volunteers and we had more volunteers than normal. We have now implemented a strict policy of limiting the volunteers to a maximum of 8. We have also implemented a new activity schedule that has improved the experience greatly and all current volunteers are very happy with the results. As I recall you were given the option to move into different accommodations or stay in the room you currently had. I believe you choose to move on you own and was never forced to move.
As far as the Sanctuary habitats they are the largest and most comprehensive in Central America. Please look at the other sanctuaries and compare ours. We do have quarantine areas, nursery and rescue enclosures that are for those animals that will be released soon, need to stay in quarantine or have injuries that requires small areas so that they cannot injure themselves further. All funds and donations go 100% to the care and attention to the animals. We have a paid staff of 11 people, including 3 veterinarians and a biologist with a full functioning clinic where all medical procedures can be performed. The land and all the initial construction of the sanctuary and rescue center was donated by the owner so that all future donation can help the monthly operating expense and the expansion of more open habitats.
We would ask that any problems or issues be brought immediately to management so they can be addressed at the time the issue arises.
Thank you again for your comments and we appreciate your help while you were at the sanctuary.
Tom Rademacher