The Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is a statewide facility that includes a surrender facility, education program, summer camps and rescue and rehabilitation.PHS focuses on two specific goals, Rescue and Rehabilitation. The need for a sanctuary was not only for non-native but native species as well. Currently PHS is home to animals of which 90% are pet trade type animals. We assist the general public, humane societies, animal welfare leagues, animal control departments,  law enforcement and other organizations across the United States.  For example, PHS assisted the SPCA on a rescue in Texas a few years ago where we picked up 572 animals. Many of these animals were rehabilitated, some were adopted, and many still call PHS home. Conservation begins with education. Our desert (and our planet) is in serious jeopardy. It is imperative to teach our youth the importance each animal plays in our eco-system. Last year the PHS outreach program touched 250,000 people. These were primarily school-aged children and teenagers.

During our volunteering at the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary, we worked to clear brush and overgrown bushes to help reduce the risk of wildfires, ensuring a safer environment for both the sanctuary and the surrounding area. Through hands-on conservation efforts, we contributed to protecting the reptiles and other wildlife that rely on the sanctuary for shelter and care. In addition to the physical work, we gained valuable knowledge about the importance of conservation, learning how these efforts directly impact the survival of various species and the ecosystems they inhabit.

Volunteering at the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary had a profound impact on our team, strengthening our sense of teamwork, responsibility, and environmental awareness. Working together to clear brush and support conservation efforts allowed us to develop better communication and collaboration skills while making a tangible difference in protecting wildlife. The experience also deepened our appreciation for the importance of conservation, inspiring us to be more mindful of how our actions affect the environment.

By seeing firsthand the dedication required to care for these animals and maintain their habitats, we left with a greater sense of purpose and a commitment to continuing efforts that support wildlife and nature.