Debbie recently attended a wonderful gala benefitting The African Wildlife Foundation. Recently, New York State teamed with The African Wildlife Foundation to crush two tons of illegal ivory in New York City’s Central Park.
The 2 tons of ivory being destroyed at the NY #IvoryCrush represents 100 elephants lost to poaching. pic.twitter.com/5RBGLFYG77
— AWF (@AWF_Official) August 3, 2017
Learn more about the Foundation and the gala below. See how you can help protect Africa’s wildlife.
Hi, Debbie! Thank you for speaking with us about the African Wildlife Foundation. You recently attended a gala benefitting the Foundation. Tell us more about the nonprofit organization.
I had the privilege of attending The RIDE for Africa Gala in Los Angeles a few weeks ago. This event was hosted by RIDEvents. Their mission is to create one-of-a-kind dance events for difference-making charities like The African Wildlife Foundation. I just adore organizations and people who use their God given talents to give back, help others and be a voice for the voiceless. RIDEvents did just that by hosting and curating a truly lovely and inspirational event. RIDE raised funds through raffles, a silent auction and selling tickets to their gala. Let me tell you, the entertainment was out of this world! Highlights included RIDEvent dancers with special guest Karina Smirnoff from ‘Dancing with the Stars’ on ABC, art in action by Brian Olsen, the beautiful voice of Trenyce Cobbins and a rocking performance by Alexander Jean (a band made up of Mark Ballas from ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and his fabulous wife, BC Jean). This event, held at Boulevard 3 in LA, benefited the African Wildlife Foundation. AWF is on a mission to ensure wildlife and wild lands thrive in modern Africa. This foundation focuses on wildlife conservation, land and habitat protection, community empowerment and economic development across the African continent.
Many people are not aware how several species are in danger of becoming extinct. How can people learn more about the African Wildlife Foundation?
Often people are shocked to hear that a vast array of species (specifically in Africa) are on their way to extinction. Many species in Africa are classified as endangered. AWF works hard to protect 80+ species daily. I encourage readers too onto the African Wildlife Foundations Website (awf.org) and educate themselves on the different species that are currently endangered and take a look at all of the ways AWF works to slow and prevent this looming extinction.
Africa is a beautiful culture rich with wildlife, good, and culture. Tell us what do you love most about Africa and why?
I have developed a deep love of travel. One of the main reasons is because of my love for discovering new cultures, animals, people and lands. Africa has so much to offer. It is so vast and so different from other continents. While I have only had the privilege of traveling to South Africa, there are so many other African countries that I am longing to explore. You can discover my South African adventures in the travel section of my website at www.debbie-sherman.com. The extraordinary beaches, lush landscape and truly welcoming people are sure to make anyone want to drop everything and plan their next escape to this beautiful South African country. Next up on my list are Kenya and Uganda. I have been dreaming of a safari in Kenya. Having the opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is sure to have me awestruck! AWF works with animals and people. They are so much more than just a one and done type of organization. I would be honored to see their operations first hand in these countries. For now, I will settle with supporting the organization from afar.
Why should people support the foundation?
The African Wildlife Foundation serves many communities, all types of endangered animals and empowers the people of Africa through teaching and the many different projects funded by AWF. The African Wildlife Foundation donation page says it best, “The wildlife and wild lands of Africa need you now more than ever. Your gift today will go directly to work helping us protect some of Africa’s rarest species. Plus, you will support our efforts to empower the people of Africa with the tools to lead in conserving their natural heritage.” You can become a member of AWF for $25. There are so many ways to give: donating, fundraising opportunities and volunteering.
Thank you for chatting with us about the African Wildlife Foundation. Is there anything else you would like to add that we didn’t cover?
You can keep current with the African Wildlife Foundation’s many happenings by subscribing to their newsletter and following them on social media. Knowledge is power! Stay up to date on the things that are most important to you. Learn more, strive to be better and be kind. In the end, that is what will make our world a better place.
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