Greetings!

Did you know that between 2006 and 2021 over 1500 wildlife rangers died in the line of duty? That is an average of nearly 2 rangers per week! The job of protecting wildlife and habitat is clearly one of the most dangerous jobs there is, but also incredibly rewarding. These brave individuals can watch as their habitats begin to thrive, wildlife numbers increase, and nature repairs itself. Your support of rangers is critical to allowing this work to continue. This month we are bringing attention to the Wildlife Ranger Challenge to help these dedicated, brave wildlife warriors.

There are many thankless jobs in our world and many people who endure harsh weather, difficult conditions, and legitimate danger in order to help this world become better. We think that rangers, anti-poaching patrolmen, eco-guards, and wildlife officers fall into this category. These brave people risk their lives to protect wild things in wild places. IEF’s projects show these rangers that we support them by building new ranger stations, providing uniforms and boots, equipping them for patrol, and expanding capacity through training.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is designed to raise awareness and funds for the important work that wildlife rangers perform. Our global partners are again participating in this year’s challenge, joining teams from over 16 African countries! They are performing physical challenges like running 21 kilometers (~13 miles) while carrying 22 kilogram (~50 pound) packs on their backs. They are also completing mini-challenges along the way like who can do the most push-ups in 2 minutes!

Last year our partners in Uganda registered four teams: Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, and “The Old Fogies”. The Queen Elizabeth National Park team finished first, taking revenge on the 2020 winners from Murchison Falls. However, the Kidepo Rangers team, participating for the first time in 2021, looked especially strong and may be the bettor’s choice for first place in 2022! As in both 2020 and 2021, The Scheinburg Relief Fund has generously committed $1 million to the Ranger Challenge to match donations received by 30th September 2022.

You can help support rangers, anti-poaching patrols, animal rescue work, law enforcement activities, community education, and all of the important work we do for elephants.

Thank you for reading our eNewsletter. Please consider sharing IEF’s news on social media or directly with a friend as we hope to build on the great work you’ve supported. Together we can secure a future where elephants thrive!

Warm Wishes,
Debbie & the IEF Team