Conservation Guardians is a non-profit philanthropy association based in the Principality of Monaco that is dedicated to the protection and conservation of the African fauna and flora.

They work alongside the IAPF (International Anti Poaching Foundation) which was founded by Damien Mander, for the wildlife and parks section of the mission. Men are chosen from local villages to become skilled rangers of the very best; after training is complete they are deployed in various parks. The parks themselves are managed in their entirety from fire breakers, protecting the wildlife, protecting the agriculture, clearing the sneers (traps). These jobs are difficult and require many resources from philanthropy organizations to accomplish.

The community side of the philanthropy association is run by Men of Trees SA, founded by Jason Hartman. In some regions where they work, unemployment can reach 80%, which makes work essential to the success of the organization. They provide the local communities with alternative ways of growing crops according to their environment. The gardens have a wonderful turnover that allow them to sell some of the very best produce to local lodges and brings in an extra income. In addition they supply the people with a sanitary solution that requires no water, is hygienic and environmentally friendly, this alone reduces diseases in the communities. The philanthropy projects go even further making the building of schools a priority, wanting to give solar paneling, providing training in hospitality, teaching, nursing to open up opportunities for employment.

The organization believes that everyone must work together if this is going to work. Everyone must care for the wildlife, the agriculture ,but we must take care of the communities. One is not more important than the other. The organization are fortunate to have dedicated teams that give of themselves completely and who have devoted their lives to what they believe.

Conservation Guardians philanthropy organization through the IAPF and Men of Trees provide a volunteer program for anyone who wants to participate in any of the sections. It’s an adventure and there are people of all walks of life who want to get their hands dirty and help make a difference. All the funds raised during events or with the volunteers go directly to these projects.

Editorial | Image Courtesy Of Conservation Guardians