Celebrating 10 Years of Sandra’s Historic Victory | | |
Ten years ago, a groundbreaking decision forever changed how the world views great apes and the rights of non-human beings.
In 2015, Argentine Judge Elena Liberatori declared that orangutan Sandra was a “non-human person,” recognizing her as a sentient being with the right to freedom and dignity. This compassionate and visionary ruling opened a new door in animal law—one that acknowledged what so many already knew: that other animals are not property, but individuals with rich emotional lives, intelligence, and the capacity to experience joy, comfort, and love.
Because of Judge Liberatori’s courage, Sandra’s life took a new and hopeful path—one filled with care, respect, and companionship at the Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida. After spending years in a zoo in Buenos Aires, Sandra was transferred to the United States in 2019 and found her forever home at the sanctuary.
| |
Today, Sandra spends her days exploring her spacious habitat and aerial trailways, basking in the Florida sunshine, and enjoying quiet companionship with Jethro, another gentle orangutan who has become her close friend. She is curious and observant, often watching her caregivers as they prepare enrichment activities just for her. Every day, Sandra experiences the freedom, choice, and peace that Judge Liberatori’s decision made possible.
We are deeply grateful to Judge Elena Liberatori for her compassion and for the ripple effect her ruling has had across the world. Sandra’s story continues to inspire greater awareness, empathy, and change for all animals—reminding us that every being deserves to be seen, respected, and valued.
Here’s to Sandra, and to the ongoing journey toward a more compassionate world.
| | Noelle Takes the Spotlight | |
New FLOAT Apparel Design Available Now!
Our newest FLOAT (For Love Of All Things) campaign shines a light on one of the Center for Great Apes’ original residents, chimpanzee Noelle.
This limited-edition pop-art inspired design is based on our upcoming Holiday Open House invitation and captures Noelle’s curious spirit at the sanctuary. As one of our founding chimpanzees, and with a birthday coming up in December, Noelle continues to represent the heart of our mission and the individuality of every ape in our care.
From October 24th through November 3rd, FLOAT will donate a portion of proceeds from every Center for Great Apes t-shirt, tank, and hoodie sold directly back to the sanctuary, which supports the lifelong care of all our 70 orangutan and chimpanzee residents.
Explore the collection and see the design at float.org/cga.
Wear your support. Celebrate Noelle. Make a difference for apes.
| Our 2025 Annual Report is Here! | | |
Our annual report has recently been mailed, and we’re excited to share that it’s now available to view online at https://centerforgreatapes.org/our-organization/
We hope you enjoy reading the latest updates and seeing the incredible impact our donors have made this year.
If you’d like to receive a printed copy by mail, simply reply to this email with your mailing address, and we’ll be happy to send one your way!
|
| Join Us for Afternoon with the Apes | |
Our October and November tours sold out fast, so we’ve added one more date—Wednesday, November 19!
Join us for this small-group guided walk through the sanctuary to see where 70 orangutans and chimpanzees live in safety and comfort. You’ll hear their rescue stories, explore their habitats, and learn how we provide lifelong care.
Tours fill quickly—register now to reserve your spot!
Program Details
Dates: Wednesday, November 19th & Thursday, December 18th
Time: 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Tickets: $50 per person
Minimum age to attend: 15 years
| | | 2026 CGA Calendar Now Available! | | |
Our 2026 Center for Great Apes calendar is here—and it’s filled with 13 months of colorful, heartwarming photos of our orangutan and chimpanzee residents!
Each month highlights the unique personalities of the apes who call the sanctuary home.
Calendars are $15 each plus $5 shipping, and all proceeds directly support the lifelong care of the 70 great apes at our sanctuary.
Order yours today and enjoy a full year of smiles from our amazing residents!
| |
Join Us at the Sebring Arts & Crafts Festival! | |
We’re excited to share that the Center for Great Apes will be part of the 58th Annual Sebring Arts & Crafts Festival on Saturday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On the Circle in Historic Downtown Sebring!
Stop by our outreach booth to browse a truly unique collection of art created by our orangutan and chimpanzee residents! Each colorful piece is one-of-a-kind, painted by some of the most creative artists at the sanctuary. Learn more about their stories, chat with our team, and discover how art enriches the lives of the apes in our care.
While you’re there, enter our door prize drawing for a chance to win a private guided tour for four people at the sanctuary—an unforgettable opportunity to see firsthand the extraordinary individuals who call the Center home.
It’s a fun day of art, community, and creativity… we hope to see you there!
| | |
We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:
- Caregiver Assistant
- Nutrition Center Assistant
If you possess the skills and experience we are looking for (or know someone who does), we encourage you to apply today! You can visit our employment page on the website for more details on these positions and the application process.
| | Thank you for supporting the Center for Great Apes! | | | | |
