History

The Center for Great Apes has roots in the rainforests of Borneo, where over twenty years ago in 1984, founder Patti Ragan spent several months volunteering at a rehabilitation project for wild orangutans. While there, her duties included tracking wild orangutans to observe behaviors for a long-term study project, and providing foster care for a group of infant orangutans. These orphans were being rehabilitated for return to their forest homes in Borneo. During this intense time of living with orangutans and gaining experience caring for orphaned infants, Patti learned to love and appreciate their quiet, gentle nature.


Mission

The Center for Great Apes’ mission is to provide a permanent sanctuary for orangutans and chimpanzees who have been rescued or retired from the entertainment industry, from research, or who are no longer wanted as pets. The Center provides care with dignity in a safe, healthy, and enriching environment for great apes in need of lifetime care.