For the Elephants: The Herd Hope

Contributed photos

A nonprofit launched by a Weston teen aims to raise awareness of endangered elephants, the threats they face in the wild, and how people can help them survive and thrive.

It is also an opportunity for young people to learn entrepreneurship for the greater good.

A trip to Kenya two years ago inspired 15-year-old Arin O’Suilleabhain to found The Herd Hope. In the process, he has learned a lot about essential business skills: leadership, organizing, project management, and fundraising.

He can transfer much of that knowledge to volunteers who join the effort — Youth Ambassadors ideally ages 13 to 17 — to help them develop similar abilities, broaden the organization’s reach, and be part of a fulfilling mission.

When we spoke earlier this week, Mr. O’Suilleabhain said volunteers from New York and Nigeria had signed up on that very day, having found The Herd Hope on Idealist, where nonprofit jobs and volunteer opportunities anywhere in the world can be found or posted.

You will see The Herd Hope team at Lachat’s Farmers Market (on Friday, August 28) at a crafts table with unique items, sales of which support the cause.

In addition, Mr. O’Suilleabhain will be at The Westport Library at 2:00 on Saturday, September 19 leading a free, family-friendly session about endangered and orphaned elephants and how people can help. At press time, tickets are available here.