July 's 'Gifts From the Universe' Project:

World Wildlife Fund

Conserving nature, using the best available scientific knowledge, and advancing that knowledge to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth... One DOLLAR at a time!

For more than 45 years, the World Wildlife Fund has been protecting the future of nature. The largest multinational conservation organization in the world, WWF works in 100 countries and is supported by 1.2 million members in the United States and close to 5 million globally. WWF's unique way of working combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global, and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.

World Wildlife Fund's Vision:

- Protecting natural areas and wild populations of plants and animals, including endangered species.

- Promoting sustainable approaches to the use of renewable natural resources.

- Promoting more efficient use of resources and energy and the maximum reduction of pollution.

WWF is committed to reversing the degradation of the planet's natural environment and building a future in which human needs are met in harmony with nature. They recognize the critical relevance of human numbers, poverty, and consumption patterns to meeting these goals.

WWF seeks to save a planet, a world of life, reconciling the needs of human beings and the needs of others that share the Earth. WWF seeks to practice conservation that is humane in the broadest sense. They seek to instill in people everywhere a discriminating, yet unabashed, reverence for nature and to balance that reverence with a profound belief in human possibilities. From the smallest community to the largest multinational organization, they seek to inspire others who can advance the cause of conservation.

WWF seeks to be the voice for those creatures who have no voice. They speak for their future. They seek to apply the wealth of their talents, knowledge, and passion to making the world wealthier in life and in spirit.

Photos and videos courtesy of our friends:

World Wildlife Fund
St. Louis Zoo
Chantelle Pritchett