The Guardian Club

Philanthropic Opportunities

The Phoenix Zoo has programs that are supported by contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations. It is because of these contributions that the Zoo is able to offer children’s programs, fund animal conservation efforts and maintain animal exhibits. Listed below are selected programs that could use your support.

Animal Sanctuary: Themed in Africa and the Tropics, we tell the story of bio-diversity. We are creating a refuge for those animals that have no place to go and cannot be returned to the wild. By telling their story, we are creating a message of hopefulness that will inspire positive action by people.

ZooReach: The Zoo is committed to making it possible for children at risk to be able to visit the Zoo and participate in its many programs and activities. Through ZooReach, created in 1992, students from schools with more than 50% of children enrolled in the State’s free/reduced nutrition program are given free access to a variety of educational field trips and programs. They also receive a reduced admission price to come to the Zoo in their school groups.

Harmony Farm Programs: Located on the Zoo’s Discovery Trail, Harmony Farm provides a unique setting for children and adults to get acquainted with nature, including domestic animals one would encounter on a working farm. They have the opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on activities and interactive experiences. The Farm features the children’s Petting Zoo and School House, which provides special crafts, exhibits and programs for children.

Conservation: The Zoo’s conservation program supports field and captive conservation research efforts that assist the Zoo in offering better care of its collection, enhance its understanding of biological systems, and help in conserving the natural world. The Zoo is currently involved in 26 Species Survival Plans that focus on reproduction, husbandry and population goals of selected endangered species. In addition to national and international conservation efforts, the Zoo is dedicated to conserving landscapes close to home.

Antler Society: This special group of friends cares enough to leave behind a portion of their assets or estate in order to better insure the future of the Zoo. Many of the Zoo’s exhibits and programs have been developed through the generosity of Zoo friends who have passed away. No annual donation is required; just include the Zoo in your will. For Zoo recognition and benefits, please inform the Development Department at the Zoo.

Volunteer Opportunities: The Zoo depends heavily upon volunteers. They help us operate on a daily basis, serving in nearly every department within the Zoo. They also help us carry out our mission, interacting with our audience and communicating the importance of animals and nature in general. In addition, individual opportunities are available along with two exclusive volunteer groups that serve the Zoo – the Party Animals and the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary.

Levels of Guardianship and Benefits

Guardian Levels

*Robert Maytag Circle ($10,000 or more)
In tribute to the Zoo’s founder, the late Robert E. Maytag
*Chairman’s Circle ($5,000 or more)
President’s Circle ($2,500 or more)
Director’s Circle ($1,000 or more)

Guardian Benefits

-Unlimited daytime admission for family and guests
-Unlimited complimentary Safari Train and Carousel rides
-Tax-deductible (excluding a small percentage associated with direct benefits)
-Donor recognition on Zoo grounds
-Exclusive ZooLights dinner for Guardian members and their families
-Carted tour for up to seven people
-Invitations to exclusive Zoo previews, Black-Tie and Guardian events
-Guardian discount of 15% on rental of the Stone House Pavilion
-Exclusive quarterly Guardian newsletter
-Subscription to Wild Times Zoo publication
-Eight ZooLights admission tickets
-Two membership cards
-Invitation to the Arizona Zoological Society annual meeting
-Voting privileges in the Arizona Zoological Society
-Discount on gift shop purchases
-Discount on snack bar purchases
-Discount on strollers and wheelchairs
-Discount on additional ZooLights tickets
-Discount on Zoo programs and special events
-Invitations to exhibit openings

*Complimentary tickets to ZooFari, the Zoo’s largest black-tie gala and an invitation to have breakfast with the Zoo’s C.E.O.