PARCA INC

Overview

PA Rhino Conservation Advocates (PARCA), Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the United States. It is primarily focused on supporting conservation efforts aimed at protecting wild rhinos.

Mission

PARCA's mission is to fund the relocation and protection of wild rhinos from high-poaching areas. This effort also includes providing care for rhinos and supporting programs that preserve their natural habitats in Africa. The organization aims to contribute to maintaining a safe and sustainable ecosystem for rhinos, which in turn benefits the broader ecosystem and local communities.

History

PARCA was co-founded by healthcare professionals from the Philadelphia area. The initiative began after one of the co-founders returned from a trip to Namibia, inspired to make a difference in wildlife conservation. In 2015, the organization met with Dereck and Beverly Joubert, National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence, and began supporting their conservation efforts, including the "Rhinos Without Borders" project.

Leadership

The organization is led by a board of directors, which includes:

• Philynn Hepschmidt: President, with a background in healthcare and a passion for animal conservation.
• Heather Smith: Founder and board member, who also works in healthcare and was inspired by a safari experience in Namibia.
• Deborah Rose: Vice President, who became involved after attending a conservation lecture by the Jouberts.
• Steven Smith: Treasurer, with extensive experience in healthcare and a focus on community impact.

Governance and Operations

PARCA operates with transparent governance practices, ensuring ethical oversight and accountability. The organization conducts regular assessments of its performance and has a diverse board composition to ensure inclusivity. However, as of recent data, the organization had not reviewed its conflict-of-interest policy in the past year.

Financials

PARCA relies primarily on contributions for its funding. In recent years, the organization has reported no executive compensation or professional fundraising fees. It focuses its expenditures on supporting conservation programs rather than internal operations.

Impact and Vision

PARCA's vision is a future where rhinos live free from the threat of extinction in their natural habitats. By supporting conservation efforts and community engagement, the organization aims to preserve not only the rhino populations but also the ecosystems they inhabit.