This Independence Day of sanctuary was sponsored by both Don and Karen Young, and an anonymous supporter, in honor of family and freedom.

Don and Karen have been instrumental in expanding the chimpanzees sense of family and freedom. They helped make Young’s Hill possible and in doing so, increased the chimpanzees’ possibilities exponentially. Don and Karen shared this message about today:

“In honor of our sons, Rob and Ryan, and our daughters-in-laws, Soo Mi and Helena, a big thanks to them for their love and support and for being amazing parents to their children, our grandchildren. They are exceptional people, and we are so blessed to have them in our lives. In honor of liberty and freedom of people and the Cle Elum Seven.”

An anonymous supporter also sponsored today “because it represents freedom from oppression.” A simple, yet powerfully appropriate statement knowing the lives the chimps lived for decades before arriving in their sanctuary home.

Thank you so much to all of you for making a difference in the chimps’ lives, including them in your celebration of family, and helping to ensure not only their freedom, but their hope, love, home and sanctuary.

Jamie and Foxie:

Foxie leads the way: Annie, Missy, Burrito and Jamie.

Foxie, was among the first to climb the new structures and take in the view: