
The Wildlife Defenders Program is a wildlife education outreach group run by the program members of Bridges for Brain Injury Inc, all who are adult survivors of brain injuries. Using live native and exotic species, the Wildlife Defenders visit schools, youth groups, nursing homes, community events, and the Canandaigua Veterans Administration, and present formal and informal programs and displays. They provide interesting and stimulating information about their animal ambassadors and encourage environmental and wildlife conservation awareness. Members also share their personal injury and rehabilitation stories and discuss the importance of safety and prevention practices. While running this community based program, members work on personal goals such as socialization, organization, communication, memory retention, planning and pre-employment skills in addition to improving their self-esteem and confidence.
