About Us

The Giant Panda, one of the most delightful and captivating of animals, is also
one of the most endangered. The best scientific estimates place the number of
wild pandas at approximately 1,600.

In 1999, after a trip to China and the Wolong Panda Center, the sight and plight
of the Giant Panda made such a dramatic impression on Suzanne Braden and
Diane Rees that upon returning to the United States, they co-founded Pandas
International to help save this magnificent animal.

In 2000, tax exempt status was granted by the Internal Revenue Service and
Pandas International became a registered 501 (c) (3) non profit.

Pandas International is unique in that it is exclusively devoted to the Giant

Panda, unlike other organizations, which serve many animals.

As the Director of Pandas International, Ms. Braden coordinates both the annual
and immediate needs of the Panda Centers. The personal relationships she has
developed with Chinese officials, veterinarians and their staff members have
allowed Pandas International to maximize its role in preserving this beloved
species.

Following the 2008 earthquake which destroyed the Wolong Panda Center and
damaged the bamboo forest in the Nature Reserve, the challenge to save the
Giant Panda has been made more difficult. Without intervention, this species
could perish.

Mission Statement
The mission of Pandas International, a non profit organization, is to ensure the
preservation and propagation of the endangered Giant Panda by providing public
awareness and education, research funding, habitat preservation and
enhancement, and assistance to the China Conservation & Research Centers for
the Giant Panda (CCRCGP).

Program Areas (for complete list see Where does my money go?)
 Medical Program & Direct Support of the Panda Reserves, including
adoptions and bamboo reforestation.
 Pandas International continually works to inform and educate regarding
the Giant Pandas.

Endangered means we have time – Extinction is forever.