U.S. Friends of the HESC, Inc.

The U.S. Friends of the HESC, Inc. is a legally registered 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife. Charitable contributions to U.S. Friends of the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, Inc. are deductible for U.S. Income Tax purposes, to the extent allowed by law.

We are pleased that 100% of funds raised in the U.S. go directly to the HESC as a result of all our expenses being generously covered by sponsoring donors. The money raised by the U.S. Friends of the HESC goes toward:

  • Upkeep of the Centre
  • Care of the animals
  • Research projects
  • Student internship programs



The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre was established by Ms. Lente Roode and focuses on the conservation of rare, vulnerable or endangered animals. Cheetah conservation is one of our core disciplines.

We are actively involved in the breeding of endangered, vulnerable or rare animal species; the education of learners, students and the general public in conservation and conservation activities; eco-tourism; the release and establishment of captive-bred cheetahs back into the wild; the treatment and rehabilitation of wild animals that are brought to the Centre. The HESC also offers an intensive, hands-on Student's Programme to conservation and adventure enthusiasts from around the world.

Recent News


On the 2nd March 2010, Heidi and Allen Roberts of NY delivered a check of US $100,000 raised by their tireless efforts for the U.S. Friends of the HESC.

Lente Roode (left) receives a check from Heidi Roberts (right)



In 2010, the U.S. Friends of the HESC initiated an internship program for students at the Shobiyana Secondary School in nearby Acornhoek. Based on merit and passion, two students were selected for the first program:

  • Ms. Akani Mthethwa (pictured left)
  • Mr. Innocent Sibuyi (pictured right)

They will learn about conservation and will complete the FGASA (Field Guide) Level 1 training. They will receive a small stipend as well.

Additionally, the U.S. Friends of the HESC selected Ms. Hlanhla Ndlovu (pictured middle) as a trainee at the HESC coffee shop so that she may earn valuable skills and assist in the support of her family.