A Dream That Started With One Visit
Twelve-year-old Cody didn’t know it yet — but the day his mom brought him to The Wilds would change the course of his life.
He left that visit with a dream:
To work with rhinos.
That Wild Dream? It Came True.
Today, Cody is part of a world-class Animal Management team at The Wilds, caring for both greater one-horned and southern white rhinos — some of the most endangered animals on Earth.
Here in Ohio, across nearly 10,000 acres of open grasslands, these rhinos roam, rest, and raise their young in herds. The Wilds is one of the largest rhino conservation centers outside of Africa — and it all exists because of supporters like you.
You help turn childhood dreams into lifelong conservation careers.
The Work Is Hard. The Impact Is Global.
Rhino care is tough, 24/7 work, especially at the only organization, outside of Africa, to breed southern white rhinos five generations removed from the wild. Cody and his team monitor every aspect of each rhino’s health — from nutrition and behavior to herd dynamics and habitat needs.
There are no shortcuts.
Just a deep commitment, every day.
Because of you, that work continues.
YOU Help Us:
- Provide expert daily care to rare and endangered species
- Restore and protect 10,000 acres of vital grassland
- Inspire the next generation of conservationists
- Lead breakthrough research in animal health and wellbeing
From Southeast Ohio to the Global Stage
Cody’s impact has gone far beyond that first childhood visit.
He now serves as:
- Vice Chair of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Greater One-Horned Rhino Species Survival Plan®
- North American studbook keeper for the species
- A contributor to global conservation through the International Rhino Keeper Association
And it all started here — because The Wilds gave him a place to dream, grow, and lead.
Why Your Gift Matters
When you give to The Wilds Fund, you create real change — for wildlife, for people, and for the planet we share.
Your Support Fuels:
- Conservation programs with measurable global impact
- Education that sparks curiosity and action in young minds
- Field research and animal care innovations
- Protection of vast, wild habitats right here in Ohio
You’re not just giving. You’re building the future of conservation.
Your gift - no matter the size - supports passionate people, like Cody, who bring our mission of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. to life every day.