Inside a K12 Virtual Field Trip to Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest
What happens when you combine curious learners, compassionate caretakers, and a group of incredibly intelligent chimpanzees? You get a K12 Virtual Field Trip that is all around fun, eye-opening, and deeply meaningful.
On a recent K12 Virtual Field Trip to Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest students got a rare chance to step into the home of some amazing resident chimps, who are surrounded by hope and love.
What is Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest?
Located in Cle Elum, Washington, Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest (CSNW) is not a zoo or a place for entertainment. Instead, it is a safe and peaceful home for chimpanzees who were previously used in entertainment, research and other human-centered environments. Their mission focuses on giving these chimpanzees the opportunity to live with love, dignity, freedom, and comfort.
Meet the Residents of CSNW
One of the most memorable parts of the session was getting to really meet the chimpanzees and learn about who they are. Throughout the K12 Virtual Field Trip, caregivers from the sanctuary team, Jenna and Kelsi, introduced us to each chimp by name, sharing their ages, backgrounds, and individual personalities. This really highlighted just how unique each chimpanzee is, with personalities all their own.
A couple of chimpanzees stood out to the audience. Jamie, aged 48 is known as a confident and intelligent leader with a playful side. She has love for all things western wear, especially cowboy boots! She loves it when caregivers dress up for her.
Then there is Cy, he is 36 and described as a quit “silent leader”. He is shy, kind, and patient, but also has a fun and surprising side. Cy loves flipping through gossip magazines, often looking like he is reading them cover to cover! He also enjoys watching rom-coms and is a fan of actors like Ryan Gosling and Stanley Tucci!
Learning More About Chimpanzees
We also learned more broadly about chimpanzees as a species, including where they naturally come from and how they communicate. Hearing their different vocalizations during the session added another layer of understanding, helping us better appreciate how expressive, social, (and sometimes loud) they are.
Learning More About the Sanctuary
Caregivers Jenna and Kelsi also gave us a glimpse into a day in the life of a caregiver, explaining how much thought and care goes into running a sanctuary.
We saw creative setups like rooms with toys, ropes, clothing, and enrichment activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, problem-solving, and tap into their natural instincts.
How You Can Help
Supporting Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest is easier than you might think, and every action makes a difference. You can help by:
- Following their daily blog and social media for updates
- Signing up for their e-newsletter
- Shopping the CSNW Collection
- Donating through programs like Chimp Pal, Bovine Buddy, or Produce Patron
- Engaging in community events
- Participating in community drives like blanket or magazine donations
Even small steps helps provide care, comfort, and enrichment for the chimpanzees who call CSNW home.
Want to learn more about the incredible work being done at the sanctuary? Visit their website: https://chimpsnw.org/
The Takeaway
By the end of the session, viewers walked away with more than just facts. Students gained a deeper appreciation for chimpanzees, a better understanding of wild animal care, and a meaningful connection to a place they may never visit in person.
Keep Exploring
If you missed the live K12 Virtual Field Trip, or want to experience it again, you can watch the full recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc4xmsSuTko
K12 Virtual Field Trips bring unique, real-world experiences straight to your screen. From animal sanctuaries to inspiring organizations around the country, there is always something new to explore.
Sign up for future sessions to keep discovering, learning, and connecting, no travel required.
