Wildlife Conservation Network Inc.

Overview

Wildlife Conservation Network Inc. (WCN) is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife worldwide. Founded in 2002 by Charles Knowles, John Lukas, and Akiko Yamazaki, WCN supports conservationists in developing strategies for coexistence between wildlife and people.

Mission and Strategy

WCN's core mission is to equip effective conservationists with the necessary tools and resources. The organization employs three primary strategies:

1. Conservation Partnerships: WCN partners with entrepreneurial conservationists, providing them with financial resources, tools, and services to effectively protect wildlife. These partnerships enable WCN to support projects that work within local communities to address both wildlife and human needs.

2. Wildlife Funds: WCN establishes specific funds for threatened species, offering flexible grants to protect wildlife across entire habitats. Notably, 100% of donations to these funds go directly to field programs with no overhead costs.

3. Rising Wildlife Leaders: WCN invests in local conservationists by offering scholarships and grants, enhancing their skills and building their organizations to ensure sustainable conservation impacts.

Programs and Initiatives

WCN has launched several key initiatives:

• Pangolin Crisis Fund: Established in 2019 to combat illegal trafficking and protect pangolins.
• Rhino Recovery Fund: Launched in 2020 to safeguard rhino populations and habitats.
• Emergency Relief Fund: Created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to support conservationists facing funding challenges.
• California Wildlife Program: Initiated in 2021 to protect fragmented wildlife populations by creating corridors for species like mountain lions.

WCN also supports a variety of conservation projects globally, including efforts to protect lions, elephants, cheetahs, and other endangered species.

Impact

WCN has gained recognition for its effectiveness, with a four-star rating from Charity Navigator. As of 2019, WCN had raised over $141 million for wildlife conservation. The organization continues to expand its reach, adding new partners and celebrating its 20th anniversary with significant fundraising milestones.