Capital Campaign

Why support the Phoenix Zoo?
As one of the largest non-profit, privately funded zoological parks in the country, the Phoenix Zoo relies exclusively on patrons, members and donors to provide annual operating revenue. The Phoenix Zoo is the second most popular point-of-destination behind the Grand Canyon. It attracted and recorded more than 1.5 million visitors last year alone. By supporting the Phoenix Zoo, you support one of Arizona’s most important and effective cultural, educational and environmental organizations in the region. The Zoo has touched and changed millions of lives through its programs, school and family activity, events throughout the year, and outreach programs that travel across the Arizona and the Southwest. The Phoenix Zoo has gained international respect and reputation for its conservation and research work with endangered species.

What makes this Zoo so special?
Phoenix Zoo has been named the fifth best zoo in the country by Child Magazine. It hosts more than 160,000 school students annually. It reaches many individuals through its stewardship mission to protect and promote the natural world. In fact, the Zoo is the largest informal science-based learning organization in the state.

The Zoo leases 125 acres of some of the most beautiful open space and oasis land in the metropolitan area. If we are to preserve this unique space and public land in Papago Park, we need to think and plan responsibly so it can serve generations to come. The Zoo not only collaborates with many organizations and NGO agencies but also accentuates Papago Park and the Cities of Phoenix and Tempe Parks and Recreation departments.

The challenge to meet this community’s need.
The Phoenix metropolitan community continues to be one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. We are one of the top 5 counties in the nation with more than 6 million people.

To compete for people’s time and dollars in this age of mass entertainment and electronic digital communications, the Zoo must invest in its present and future. After 46 years, the Zoo is tired and worn – it needs to be refreshed with new exhibits, displays and facilities. Visitors expect high quality amenities, variety, convenience and comfort.

The Zoo has a major role to play in the development of an informed and knowledgeable citizenry. The Zoo needs to continue to offer programs that inspire learning, discovery and adventure. It must stress the inter-relatedness of all life on the planet; the role of nature, the environment and man’s responsibility to keep a healthy balance between it all. From passive exhibition of animals from around the round to the practical application of interactive learning - the public will become aware of our individual actions and impact upon the world.

In the spring of 2004, the Arizona Zoological Board of Directors approved a Master Strategic Plan for the Phoenix Zoo. This plan involved a result of internal and external study of the community needs, priorities and critical issues facing the organization. Research included professional consultants, staff, board, community members and donors. A capital campaign feasibility study was also conducted to test the interest and support for such a campaign. A campaign to raise $20 million will help address many of the key priorities and critical needs.