Mary Lee Jensvold, Associate Director and Primate Communication Specialist at Fauna Foundation, has dedicated her life to the care and advocacy of chimpanzees. Founded in 1997 and located just south of Montreal, Fauna is Canada’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, providing lifelong refuge to former research animals while promoting conservation, education, and ethical awareness about our shared responsibility toward all species. Under Jensvold’s leadership, Fauna has witnessed the end of invasive research on chimpanzees in North America, though her work continues as she champions protection for other primates still used in laboratories and ensures the ongoing care of Fauna’s residents through community support and donations.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Fauna is a protected sanctuary for chimpanzees located south of Montreal. We are a registered Canadian charity.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Through sanctuary, conservation and education, we aim to foster a better understanding of all animals while exploring our ethical responsibility as humans for the well-being of all Earth’s creatures.
When did you start/join it?
1997
What made you want to get involved?
I have spent my career working for chimpanzees in behavioural studies, advocacy, and protection.
What was the situation like when you started?
Many chimpanzees were used in biomedical and other invasive research.
How has it changed since?
Chimpanzees are no longer used in invasive research, and hundreds have made it to sanctuaries throughout North America.
What more needs to be done?
Monkeys are still used by the thousands in invasive and biomedical research. We need to raise awareness and advocate for the end of these practices. We also continue to provide lifetime care for the chimpanzee residents of Fauna Foundation. We rely completely on donations; we receive no government funding.
How can our readers help?
Support our sanctuary with a donation!
Do you have any events coming up?
Stay tuned to our website.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary.
