Philadelphia Zoo kicking off fundraising campaign with two-day celebration

The Philadelphia Zoo is hosting a party to help launch its ambitious new fundraising campaign.

This new campaign, called “Remember the Future: The Campaign for Philadelphia Zoo,” is a five-year, $85 million comprehensive fundraising effort that will support every facet of the zoo and its aspirational conservation goals.

The zoo said the campaign has already quietly raised $65 million, and this weekend, they’re going public in a big way.  

To launch this public phase of the campaign, the zoo is hosting two all-day parties on Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9.

The celebrations will include animal feedings, wildlife chats, daytime dance parties, sports mascot visits, giveaways, and other surprises.

The zoo is aiming to raise more money over 48 hours through on-site, online, and text donations, with giveaways, raffle prizes, and for the first 100 donors of $500+, a one-of-a-kind animal photo.

Organizers said this campaign is about more than the Zoo, “it’s about protecting wildlife and their homes at a time when biodiversity loss and habitat destruction continue to threaten ecosystems around the world.”

“If there is one thing I have learned since coming here, it is that Philly loves its zoo. It is an honor to work for an organization that is so treasured; but we can do even more for the community and for the animals in our care,” President and CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman said in a news release. “The Remember the Future Campaign is our bold commitment to conservation research, animal care, education and the community. Our work has never been more vital. We will continue to make Philadelphia Zoo a resource and institution that the region can be proud of and enjoy. With support, we will harness the innovation, creativity and drive that defines Philadelphia Zoo and the region.”

For more information on the campaign and the celebration, visit www.rememberthefuture.org.