Where to Give Back This Giving Tuesday: Jeremiah Pouncy’s Top Conservation Picks
When it comes to protecting wildlife and our planet, Cornell veterinary student and conservationist Jeremiah Pouncy walks the talk. Known for his passion for animal welfare and global sustainability, Jeremiah believes that even small donations can make a big difference for animals, people, and the planet.
This Giving Tuesday, he’s sharing his top picks for organizations doing extraordinary work in conservation, education, and global health. Whether you can give a little or a lot, these groups are worth your support.
1. Global Protagonists
Jeremiah describes Global Protagonists as a “movement of changemakers.” The organization empowers young people around the world to become leaders in sustainability and conservation. Through education, storytelling, and on-the-ground action, Global Protagonists gives the next generation the tools to make a real impact.
“They focus on inspiring everyday people—especially youth—to take action for the planet,” Jeremiah says. “It’s conservation through empowerment.”
2. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
If you’ve ever seen an elephant rescue video that made you tear up, chances are it came from Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Based in Kenya, this renowned organization is known for rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants and rhinos.
Jeremiah admires their holistic approach to conservation. “They don’t just save animals—they protect habitats, run veterinary units, and work with local communities,” he explains.
3. Flora & Fauna International
Flora & Fauna International (FFI) has been safeguarding nature for more than a century. As one of the world’s oldest conservation organizations, FFI partners with local groups to protect threatened species and ecosystems in over 40 countries.
“FFI understands that conservation isn’t one-size-fits-all,” Jeremiah says. “They respect local cultures and traditions while promoting sustainable, science-based solutions.”
4. Jane Goodall Institute
Founded by the legendary primatologist herself, the Jane Goodall Institute continues Dr. Goodall’s mission to inspire compassionate conservation. From chimpanzee protection to reforestation and community education, the institute is dedicated to healing the planet through hope and action.
“Dr. Goodall showed us that every individual matters, every action counts,” Jeremiah says. “Her institute keeps that message alive every day.”
5. The Dental Coalition for Conservation
Yes, you read that right—dentistry meets conservation! The Dental Coalition for Conservation provides dental care to communities near conservation areas. By improving human health, they also help protect wildlife by reducing disease transmission and strengthening local partnerships.
“This is conservation with a humanitarian heart,” Jeremiah explains. “Healthy communities mean healthier ecosystems.”
Giving with Purpose
Jeremiah’s Giving Tuesday message is simple: find a cause that speaks to you and give what you can.
“You don’t have to donate thousands to make a difference,” he says. “Even sharing an organization’s work on social media helps raise awareness. Conservation is a team effort—and every voice counts.”
Want to join Jeremiah in giving back this year?
Visit these organizations’ websites, learn more about their work, and support them this Giving Tuesday. Together, we can make the world a little wilder—and a lot kinder.
