Wild Aid Charity Green Sharkwater Rob Stewart Toronto WOMAN.ca

Celebrity Activist Bo Derek in Toronto to Launch WildAid Canada

Yorkville hotspot Lobby Bar on Bloor was buzzing with philanthropic activity this week as WildAid launches in Canada. WildAid is a leading force in combating the multi-billion dollar international trade in illegal wildlife products. Bo Derek has been involved in this issue for several years serving as a US State Department special envoy. Also joining Bo Derek in this cause are Jackie Chan, Yao Ming and other celebrities and personalities.

This issue made headlines in March with 3 Ontario men being charged with 34 violations of Ontario law in a smuggling operation that included eastern massasauga rattlesnakes and spotted turtles.

WildAid Canada has become active in both national and international efforts to combat wildlife trade. In Canada, WildAid Canada is fighting for strengthened efforts against poaching and the shark fin trade. Internationally, WildAid Canada is working in cooperation with projects in China, Indonesia and the Galapagos Islands.

"Recent news stories have shown that the illegal wildlife trade is a major problem here in Toronto," said Ms. Derek. "WildAid will be leading the fight to combat the trade in both native and non-native species."

"WildAid's unique focus concentrates both the need for enforcement and efforts to lower demand for endangered species," addedPeter Knights, WildAid's Executive Director. "We hope that Canada can become a leading force in the efforts to eliminate this destructive practice."

WildAid's mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade within our lifetimes. To achieve this WildAid uniquely focuses on raising awareness to reduce the demand for threatened and endangered species products and to increase public support for wildlife conservation.

WildAid is a non-profit organization headquartered in San Francisco with representation in China, India, Galapagos, London and Canada. The overhead is funded by donations from foundations and direct donations from individuals so that all on-line donations can go 100% into programs.

WildAid believes that the ecological damage, cruelty and corruption involved in the illegal wildlife trade are both unnecessary and morally unacceptable - that these activities constitute a theft from future generations. It is the duty of both the governments and citizens of wealthier nations to provide technical and financial support to less wealthy nations to protect our common heritage.

Si Si Penaloza
		About the author:
		Si Si has cultivated strong ties with editors, producers and publishers at all major Canadian media outlets. She is a seasoned print, radio and broadcast specialist. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from Bowdoin College in Maine, Si Si moved to Manhattan to study Film at New York University. Her strengths lie in contextualizing relevant content for a broad audience. She's driven to stay competitive and at the top of the market - commissioning exclusive features and launching bold initiatives.
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