The Association for the Protection and Welfare of Wildlife, ANIMA, was founded in September, 2005. The initial founding members consist of individuals with lengthy and unique experience in the protection of the natural environment and the caring for wild animals, as they have worked for many years in similar centres in our country. This team is staffed by old and new collaborators, vets, environmentalists, foresters, legal advisers, specialists in various related fields and executives specialised in the administration of NGOs.

The initial need which led to the foundation of the Association is the upgrading and modernisation of the welfare and release of wild animals, according to international development and more particularly the needs found in our country. At the same time, the necessity has arisen to inform the general public using a new approach. The social mapping of Greece has changed in the last fifteen years, meaning that in order for information to be effective, wider social groups such as economic immigrants, need to be reached. The Association has begun reaching out to the general public.

Environmental education of youngsters is a priority of our organisation. We are of the persuasion that investing in children of school age is the only guarantee for the future of the planet and its inhabitants. The Association has active members who are educationalists, specialists in pre-school and school environmental education which is the object of our organisation.

We also have members with lengthy experience in matters of forest protection and who have participated in the restoration and upgrading of forest ecosystems.

At the First Aid Station for wild animals which is operating in the offices of the Association (134 Menelaou St, Kallithea) more than 100 wild animals have been treated in the last 18 months. These consist mainly of wild birds but also tortoises, foxes and hedgehogs. The Association co-operates on a permanent basis with a specialised vet and also has experienced nursing staff. The release of cured animals is supervised by members specialised in the task.  

The Association co-operates with the Natural History Museum of the University of Crete, with the Veterinary School of the Aristotle University in Thessaloniki in regards the provision of specialised information; with environmental NGOs as well as with any other organisations that promote the protection of the fauna and flora of Greece.

The activities of the organisation are dependent on contributions from its members and supporters, on the ordinary citizens who daily find wounded and helpless animals, as well as on sponsorship from companies with social awareness.

ANIMA Board of Directors