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It’s Global Sanctuary for Elephants’ 13th!

August 29, 2026

Thirteen years ago today, Global Sanctuary for Elephants was born out of the need for more healthy spaces for elephants around the world. GSE’s first project was to create Elephant Sanctuary Brazil, where elephants across South America were already waiting in line. Our very small team had to really put their heads down and build the first yards quickly because Maia and Guida were ready for their new homes. We knew there would be struggles, but only by experiencing them were we able to face them down with strength and belief. 

It’s not a surprise that creating this space has not been easy. Outside of creating the detailed health and recovery plans for the elephants, there are so many hard steps when establishing a sanctuary–everything from finding the right property and the right people to provide elephant care to building and maintaining the facilities. But on top of everything else, perhaps the hardest part of our growth has meant confronting old ways of thinking that somehow persist. As hard as it can sometimes be to believe, there are people who are resistant to the idea of sanctuary. Although it seems that so many people know that the old models of zoos and circuses are harmful to elephants, we still see many holding onto the past. 

Those dated attitudes that insist an inappropriate captive space is in any way adequate to physical, mental, and emotional wellness remain. Even when given the chance to send an elephant to a wild-habitat sanctuary, so many individuals and organizations believe the answer is often a firm no, no matter the scientific evidence to the contrary. It’s understandable that some in a community might feel sadness at losing the elephant they may have grown up watching, but an elephant’s soul can’t be owned.

The ongoing fight against inappropriate captive situations sometimes results in campaigns against the sanctuary and untruths being perpetuated. We always knew that there was a likelihood that this would happen, but still held out hope that, with a deeper understanding of who elephants are, people would want the best for any animal. The world really is coming to understand the idea and the importance of sanctuary and how it can provide things that other captive spaces simply cannot. But after having to prove ourselves, we’re once again seeing positive movement in Brazil, toward sanctuary. The recent quick transfer of Baby to ESB after a years-long process was a big win and will hopefully have ripple effects down the line. We hope this is evidence of a lasting shift in ideology, in South America, and across the globe.

For 13 years, we have been beyond appreciative of our sanctuary family. Throughout all of the challenges and losses we’ve faced over the years (which sometimes seem to come back-to-back), we’ve never felt alone. We see a growing community of people working together to promote sanctuary and push for better lives for this remarkable species and others as well. You share the elephants’ stories and you advocate for every individual in captivity. You believe in our work. For that, and for so many things, we thank you. After a baker’s dozen of years, we’re still committed to the work. Together, let’s keep making progress.

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Comments(12)

  1. REPLY
    Sue says
    August 29, 2026 at 3:04 pm

    So very thankful for your lifelong commitment to providing the best life possible for captive elephants, as well as many other residents who need care. I am so happy and grateful for the day I came across your website. Being allowed to witness so many beautiful stories unfold and the way GSE shares their mission with openness and honesty has been an invaluable gift. Thank you ❤️🐘❤️

  2. REPLY
    Wim says
    August 29, 2026 at 4:10 pm

    Congratulations to all the blessed elephants that have reached the safe haven of sanctuary. Endless thanks to the complete GSE team for creating a little piece of paradise in Brasil. For many followers around the world you’ve created a magical place.

  3. REPLY
    Beci says
    August 29, 2026 at 5:35 pm

    Your commitment is inspiring. I try to say it as often as possible and that is thank you so much to you and the selfless people that continue to work day and night taking care of these wonderful beings. What you offer these elephants is just amazing and it makes my heart smile to see them able to live out the rest of their lives in as close to freedom as they’ll be able to be. I’m so excited for Sandro. I donated a decent amount. (for me anyway because I live on Social Security), to help get him back to the Sanctuary. I’m so excited to take this journey with you guys. But this does mean that you’ll have to have Baby out of the male habitat correct? Again, thank you guys. You are wonderful people.

    • REPLY
      Sara says
      August 30, 2026 at 12:50 pm

      Beci – thanks for your generosity and dedication. It means so much!

  4. REPLY
    Patricia Richardson says
    August 29, 2026 at 6:46 pm

    Very happy anniversary to such outstanding Founders and their incredible, dedicated Team! And, to our wonderful ladies who are flourishing in the love and companionship of each other and their caretakers — and, now, to have a marvelous Gentleman join soon in superb accommodations!
    Many, many cheers!!!💜

  5. REPLY
    Ada says
    August 29, 2026 at 7:18 pm

    A very Happy 13th Anniversary, GSE! I’m new here. I started following, donating, being an EleGuardian with our beloved Pupy. Still here as I so believe in everything you do to save eles from captivity and giving them a beautiful life in the sanctuary🥰Here’s to 13+++ years more Team GSE🥂💗

    • REPLY
      Sara says
      August 30, 2026 at 12:48 pm

      Thank you, Ada!

  6. REPLY
    Debra Moore says
    August 29, 2026 at 10:58 pm

    Congratulations, Scott and Kat and all of those on their team for demonstrating so clearly how sanctuary changes each arrival to joy, from the first day! Spectacular job, I’m so proud of you all!

  7. REPLY
    Bonnie says
    August 29, 2026 at 11:16 pm

    Well Well Well Happy Thirteen Anniversary To Everyone at the Sanctuary 🥳🥳🥳

  8. REPLY
    Bonnie says
    August 29, 2026 at 11:31 pm

    Sara I understand what you’re saying and hopefully soon maybe more Countries will have Sanctuarys like you all

  9. REPLY
    Johnny says
    August 30, 2026 at 9:01 am

    I love this place!

  10. REPLY
    Doe Fowler says
    August 31, 2026 at 3:16 pm

    Happy 13th Anniversary! Thank you for this heartfelt post, especially noting “an elephant’s soul can’t be owned.” Amen! I am grateful to be part of the GSE/GSB community (since Guille & Pocha’s journey). We all share a special bond that connects us all no matter where we are in the universe… love of elephants. I pray that the elephants feel that love and know no matter where they are in the world, they are special.

    Thank you for making your vision a reality and helping 🐘🦣 one soul at a time. God bless our herd!

    Love from Florida, USA.

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MISSION: Protecting, rescuing, and providing sanctuary for elephants worldwide.

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