Isabella’s Special “Orangutan” Birthday
Earlier this month, one of our youngest supporters, Isabella Velez of Charlotte, NC, celebrated her 7th birthday. In lieu of gifts, she asked everyone at her birthday party to bring a donation for the orangutans from Orangutan Island. Isabella ended up raising more than one hundred dollars for the orangutans!!!
We were so thrilled by Isabella’s act of selflessness that we decided to reward her with an orangutan adoption. She chose to adopt Kesi. According to her mother Isabella was “very sad and upset at first to hear what happened to Kesi, but was excited that she is now doing well!”
We would like to extend our thanks to Isabella’s parents, Julia & Robert, as well as to all of Isabella’s friends (and their parents) for making a contribution to help save the orangutans!
Below is Isabella’s letter to us, which we felt compelled to post… 
Thank you so much Isabella! The orangutans need more people like you!
March 24th, 2008 at 11:15 am
We are so proud of you! You are a wonderful incredible little girl. We love you so much!
Titi Licy and Tio Andy;)
March 24th, 2008 at 11:24 am
Isabella -
You are a very inspirational little girl. You make me want to be a better person!
March 31st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Dear Isabella:
What a wonderful thing you did for the orangutans. They are also my favorite animal and I to would like to go the Orangutan Island and do whatever I could to help. You are a hero!!
And Happy Birthday.
April 4th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Isabella!
I’ve really loved orangutans for a while now too, and haven’t been able to think of something as sweet and thoughtful as you have to help their cause! I hope you keep up your good work, and that others look up to your example!
taylor from phx, arizona
April 18th, 2008 at 1:50 am
Isabella,
We need more unselfish, thoughtful people like you on this planet. As someone who works with orangutans daily I can’t say enough when people like you care as much as those of us who work with do. I’m glad you’re part of the human race’s future. It will be bright one with more people like you.
Happy Birthday!
April 19th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Good Job Isabella! This is a great story on how the little things count. It is inspirational since we can tell you did it on your own, from your heart, which is the greatest reward. The Orangutans should feel lucky to have you on their side…
James from Denver, CO
June 8th, 2008 at 12:55 am
Isabella, great job helping the orangutans. I had a donation birthday party too, for my 9th birthday. It was the greatest birthday ever. I am glad we are working together!
Kylie from California