Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (CIWY) is a Bolivian non-governmental organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and care of wildlife that has fallen victim to illegal trafficking and other harm.
About Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi
Since 1996, CIWY has been Bolivia’s leading organisation in the fight for animal rights and wildlife care. They work to combat the illegal wildlife trade and the destruction of the environment, collaborating with the Bolivian authorities to enforce the law, to seize and rescue animals from poachers and merchants, as well as zoos when conditions do not meet legal requirements. CIWY also rehabilitates wild animals that were injured by fires or other disasters, and they conduct educational projects locally and nationally, as well as research projects, and scientific dissemination.
Their mission is to inspire humankind to uphold values that promote conservation and the recuperation of biodiversity. They do this by operating three wildlife sanctuaries distributed throughout Bolivia: Machía, Ambue Ari and Jacj Cuisi. These sanctuaries are managed by a team of professionals and volunteers from around the world.
CIWY’s name reflects the ethnic diversity of Bolivia and their link with nature, by using words from the indigenous languages of the three main ethnic groups in Bolivia. “Inti” means “sun” in Quechua, “Wara” means “star” in Aymara, and “Yassi” means “moon” in Chiriguano-Guaraní. Bringing these languages together symbolises unity.
In 2007, Laura Coleman, ONCA’s founder visited CIWY where she was first inspired to create ONCA, a creative space for anyone who wants to tell, listen to or be part of a story about positive change. ONCA continues to have a strong relationship with CIWY and the work that they do in Bolivia. If you want to find out more about our work with Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi click the link below.
SUPPORT CIWY
To provide vital support for CIWY, the people, the wildlife and their jungle communities, please sponsor one of CIWY’s animals, make a donation at www.intiwarayassi.org, or contribute to the CIWY Global Giving campaign.