8-22 Around Kennesaw Webfinal

Page 42

Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services.

There are a lot of small dogs like this one at the shelter. This dog’s name is Molly. She is a 7-year-old terrier. She came to the shelter as a stray and has a lot of love and positive energy in her. Molly would be a perfect family dog who would love everyone and just have a fun time with them.

I interviewed Global Conservation Corps (GCC) founder and Executive Director Matt Lindenberg about what he does and his new movie, “Rhino Man.” This interview is the last of three parts that have been published over the summer. GCC (www. globalconservationcorps. org) is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta that bridges the gap between community and wildlife.

Rob with Matt Lindenberg of Global Conservation Corps.

What do you want people to know about GCC?

It is about investing in people to save wildlife. If we can’t secure the future of the local communities living around wildlife, there will be no wildlife. We must create a mutually beneficial relationship between wildlife and the people.

How can someone work for GCC? This cat’s name is Idgie. She is 15 years old and was an owner surrender. She has been in the shelter a very long time, and she just needs a home to be loved and live out her life.

Our approach is to bring skilled people into the classrooms in our communities to educate and provide skill development and opportunity creation for people living alongside wildlife. Families can come to South Africa and be educated in all we do.

How can the community help?

It starts with educational awareness. Become educated on the problems involved in protecting wildlife. Share our posts on Instagram and social media. We do events in Atlanta, so join us there and help with events. If you have any connections that do corporate matching or want to pay the salary of a South African ranger guarding rhinos against poachers, let me know.

Is there still a possibility that rhinos will become extinct?

Yes, unfortunately. At this rate of poaching, rhinos will be extinct within 10 years. Everyone needs to come together to solve the problem. A rhino horn is worth about $100,000.

What animal is in the most danger?

Rhinos are super endangered. Also, there are only about 7,000 cheetahs and 10,000 lions in the wild.

What is the most important way to protect wildlife?

Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.

40

AROUND KENNESAW | August 2022

Everyone has a part to play. It doesn’t need to be rhinos in Africa. It could be several species of darters (very small fish) or sea turtles in Georgia. Just do something. “Rhino Man” will be premiering at one of the big film festivals later this year. Watching the film will provide a lot of answers and inspiration.

How can people get in touch with you?

Follow us on Instagram and look at our website. We also have a very cool newsletter, with stories from the field.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.