Zoo Kids, Inc. was designed to help s/files/storyimages/at-risk and disadvantaged children on exciting educational adventures uniquely provided by the Louisville Zoo. Youth find inspiration in the mysteries of the Zoo with its exotic animals and lush botanical setting. A Zoo experience frequently sparks students’ imaginations and gives new meaning to the subject of their studies.

Each year, the Zoo is aware of an overwhelming need for assistance in offsetting the cost of visiting the Zoo. Zoo Kids, Inc. allows the Zoo to act as an intermediary between 501(c)(3) non-profit agencies or schools that serve underprivileged youth in the community and business leaders who are willing to invest in their future.

“We believe this is an important initiative, and we are glad we can play a part,” said Chris Sanders, General Counsel for United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) 227 and Secretary of the Greater Louisville United Labor Picnic. “We hold our annual picnic at the Zoo every year because we care about families and children. Donating to this program allows others to have the same great experience as we do.”

Education is a primary focus for the Louisville Zoo, and nothing seems to capture the hearts and minds of children as much as the Zoo.

“Every day we get the chance to see children’s faces filled with anticipation as they race down the walkways to see Scotty, our baby elephant, or watch gorillas in Gorilla Forest. But, unfortunately, many children in our community are not able to have that experience because their families are faced with difficult financial and social situations. Zoo Kids, Inc. was designed to teach the area’s children to love and care for the natural resources of our city and planet, as well as put a smile their faces,” said Louisville Zoo Director John Walczak.

Last year, Zoo Kids, Inc. served more than 50 nonprofit agencies, including School Choice Scholarships, LifeSpring, Brooklawn, Harbor House of Louisville and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

“With our major donation, we hope the Zoo Kids, Inc. program can expand,” Sanders said. “We encourage everyone in the community to play a part in supporting Zoo Kids, Inc.”

If you would like to support the Zoo Kids, Inc. program, contact Kacy Durbin at (502) 238-5615. While a $5,000 donation provides 500 under-served children the opportunity to visit the Zoo, there are many donation levels to explore.

For more information on how to become a Zoo Kids, Inc. recipient agency or organization, visit www.louisvillezoo.org/support/zookids/index.htm for a qualification and enrollment form.