Thankful for Our Sanctuary Family | | |
As we gather for Thanksgiving, all of us at the Center for Great Apes are reminded of how much your support truly means. Every day, we see the difference you make in the lives of the orangutans and chimpanzees who call the sanctuary home, and we are deeply grateful.
Because of your generosity, our residents enjoy nourishing meals, safe and natural spaces, companionship with their own species, and the steady, compassionate care they deserve. Your kindness helps create a place where each individual can grow, heal, explore, and simply be who they are.
To our donors, members, volunteers, and followers, thank you. Your commitment allows us to carry this mission forward with strength and purpose. We appreciate you more than words can fully express, and we’re honored to have you as part of our sanctuary family.
Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful, joyful Thanksgiving. May the season bring comfort, connection, and many moments of gratitude.
Warmest wishes from all of us at the Center for Great Apes.
| | Celebrating Chimpanzee Marco | | |
Today, we celebrate a remarkable milestone for a remarkable chimpanzee. Marco (believed to be about 65–66 years old) marks his 20th anniversary of arriving at the Center for Great Apes. As the oldest resident at the sanctuary, Marco carries a story woven with hardship, resilience, and an enduring spirit that still shines bright every single day.
Marco’s journey began in the wilds of Africa. As an infant, he was taken after his mother was killed by poachers, then shipped to North America to be sold. He eventually found himself performing in a small traveling circus. By the time circus trainers acquired him, he suffered from a nutritional deficiency that affected his early development. As a result, Marco is unusually small for an adult male chimpanzee, weighing only about 80 pounds, with a compact, square build and a coat sprinkled with silver.
When the circus retired, the other chimpanzees were sold, but Marco, being the smallest, was kept as a pet. For three decades, he lived alone in a tiny backyard cage, never seeing another chimpanzee.
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But everything changed when he arrived at the Center and met Butch.
Butch, another older ex-circus chimpanzee who was also wild-caught, became Marco’s anchor, and the two have been steadfast companions for 16 years. Their bond is unmistakable. If Butch barks, Marco follows instantly with his own bark, always backing up his friend. They spend their days together, rarely apart, content in each other’s company.
Despite his age, Marco remains relatively active. To Marco, every food is a favorite food, though frozen juice “Boomer” balls hold a special place in his heart. He also loves a good game of chase, happily convincing caregivers to join in. Marco has a clever habit of cutting corners to win... proof that age hasn’t dulled his sense of humor or competitiveness one bit.
Marco spends his days exactly as every chimpanzee deserves: with companionship, enrichment, good care, and the confidence that comes from feeling safe.
Today, we honor Marco for his strength, his gentle spirit, and the joy he brings to the sanctuary. Happy 20th anniversary, Marco. We’re grateful for every single day with you.
| | Celebrate the Season with the Apes! | |
Our Holiday Open House is almost here... Saturday, December 6th!
Registration is now open for this special afternoon when guests can stroll the sanctuary paths, see the orangutans and chimpanzees enjoying festive treats and holiday gifts, and experience the Center in its holiday glow.
Food trucks, holiday shopping, live music, a silent auction, and a cheerful raffle all add to the fun. It’s a wonderful chance to visit the sanctuary and support the apes during this joyful season.
If you’re not yet a member, this event is the perfect time to join and receive an invitation to our exclusive Spring Member Day in 2026.
Space is limited. Reserve your tickets today and celebrate the season with the apes!
| | 2026 CGA Calendar is Available! | | |
Our 2026 Center for Great Apes calendar is here! Full of colorful, heartwarming photos featuring our orangutan and chimpanzee residents!
Each month captures their unique personalities, and every purchase supports their lifelong care.
Calendars are $15 plus $5 shipping. Order yours today and enjoy a year of smiles from our amazing apes!
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Employment Opportunities
We are seeking passionate individuals who share our commitment to the well-being of these remarkable great apes. We are currently seeking:
- Caregiver Assistant
- Caregiver
- Volunteer Coordinator
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! | | | | |
