Mountain Gorilla Conservation Society of Canada

EDMONTON, Alberta, T5L5E3 Canada

Mission Statement

Our Mission The mission of the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Society of Canada (MGCSC) is to help secure the future of gorillas by increasing the number of wildlife veterinarians in the field. We achieve this by providing scholarships in veterinary medicine that focus on the urgent need to prevent zoonotic diseases. Our mission goes beyond just science—it’s about protecting lives, uplifting communities, and preserving the natural world. By investing in veterinary education, we empower the next generation of wildlife health professionals to safeguard biodiversity and improve the well-being of all living beings. Our work extends to the communities that need it most, addressing environmental issues that affect low-income and underserved populations. By focusing on resource management, conservation, and resilience, we’re not just helping wildlife—we’re empowering communities and creating a sustainable future. The "Wildlife Health and Management" scholarship program is more than an investment in education; it’s a powerful tool for transformation, providing the leadership necessary to improve the health and welfare of all.

About This Cause

The Mountain Gorilla Conservation Society of Canada ( MGCSC ) is a volunteer-based charitable organization whose members are passionate and dedicated to helping save the world's endangered mountain and lowland gorillas in Africa. The conservation of gorillas plays a vital role in sustaining ecosystems, preventing zoonotic diseases, and supporting local economies. By protecting gorillas, we not only safeguard biodiversity but also address broader global challenges, including climate change and public health. Here's a breakdown of how saving gorillas impacts the world: 1. Sustaining Ecosystems and Biodiversity • Keystone Species: Gorillas are essential for maintaining the health of the forests they inhabit. As they feed on plants and fruits, they contribute to the regeneration of the forest, helping to preserve plant diversity and forest ecosystems. • Forest Health and Climate Change: Gorillas help to prevent overgrowth of vegetation, ensuring that the forest remains balanced and continues to store carbon, thus helping to mitigate climate change. Healthy forests also generate oxygen and act as carbon sinks, benefiting the entire planet. 2. Preventing Zoonotic Diseases • Reducing Human-Animal Contact: When gorillas and other wildlife are forced into closer contact with human populations due to habitat destruction, the risk of zoonotic diseases (diseases that transfer from animals to humans) increases. Protecting gorilla habitats reduces the likelihood of such diseases, benefiting both wildlife and human communities. • Healthier Ecosystems: A healthy, intact ecosystem minimizes the risks of disease transmission. Keeping gorillas in their natural habitats limits the chances of them spreading diseases to nearby villages or urban areas. 3. Supporting Local Economies and Communities • Ecotourism: In countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), gorilla tourism is a significant economic driver. Tourists from around the world travel to see these endangered species, generating revenue that supports local businesses, from small enterprises like hotels and restaurants to larger ventures like transportation services. • Job Creation: The tourism industry creates employment opportunities, particularly for local communities near national parks. Rangers, park guides, and other park-related staff benefit from steady employment, while conservation efforts also create additional jobs in research and infrastructure development. • Infrastructure Development: Revenue from gorilla tourism supports the development of vital infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and roads. This improves the quality of life for the local communities, helping to lift them out of poverty. 4. Global Benefits • Protecting Global Biodiversity: Gorillas are not just national treasures; they are part of the world's natural heritage. By conserving them, we ensure that future generations around the globe can enjoy the wonder of these magnificent creatures.• One Health Approach: The "One Health" approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By conserving gorillas and their habitats, we reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, protect biodiversity, and contribute to a healthier planet. • Climate Regulation: The forests where gorillas live play an essential role in regulating global climate patterns. By conserving these forests, we are also preserving ecosystems that regulate the climate, maintain water cycles, and provide oxygen for the entire world. 5. Impact on Global Communities: • Global Responsibility: Gorillas are a part of the global ecosystem and belong to the world. Regardless of where you live, People everywhere have a stake in their conservation. Supporting gorilla protection means helping to preserve critical ecosystems that benefit humanity on a global scale. • Awareness and Advocacy: People in cities far from gorilla habitats, like Edmonton, can play a role in raising awareness, funding conservation efforts, and advocating for policies that protect these species. Their actions contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, which has far-reaching benefits for global health and environmental well-being. Conclusion: Saving gorillas is not just about protecting a single species—it's about preserving entire ecosystems that benefit the health of our planet, the wellbeing of local communities, and the survival of species that play a role in balancing global climates and ecosystems. Your support of the One Health Scholarships not only strengthens the global effort to protect gorillas but also helps safeguard the health of humans and wildlife alike. Contributing today means investing in a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all. Donate now and make a lasting difference!

Mountain Gorilla Conservation Society of Canada
13040 137 Ave Nw Po Box 69184
EDMONTON, Alberta T5L5E3
Canada
Phone 780-720-2064
Unique Identifier 826078081RR0001