Our Story
Founded by Michael D. Ellis in 1999, the Atlanta Wild Animal Rescue Effort (AWARE) emerged from a pressing need for wildlife rehabilitation in metropolitan Atlanta. After a decade of experience as a wildlife rehabilitator in the northwest United States, Michael returned to find only one small center serving the area. Recognizing the rich biodiversity of the region, he, along with fellow rehabilitator Melanie Haire and a dedicated group of friends, envisioned a facility that could cater to the needs of injured and orphaned wildlife. After years of planning and collaboration with DeKalb County, AWARE found its home on 7 acres at Arabia Mountain, officially opening its doors to wildlife patients in 2006.