The Philadelphia Zoo – A Hub for Education, Conservation, and Community Engagement
In a recent interview, Katrina Pratt Roebuck, Founder and CEO of Uplifme, spoke with Dr. Joelle Morgerman, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Zoo, about the zoo’s comprehensive programs and its commitment to education, conservation, and community involvement.
Overview of the Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is a world leader in animal care, conservation, and education, and has been a vital community resource for over 150 years. It serves as the region’s largest outdoor classroom, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about wildlife and conservation while creating lasting memories. The zoo connects people with nature and inspires them to make a positive impact on the world.
Educational Programs
- Wild Connections: A program for students in the Philadelphia School District that includes a 45-minute interactive session with zoo animals. It provides lesson plans and activities aligned with state and national curriculum standards to promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and science literacy.
- West Philly Zoo Scholars: A high school program for students in West Philadelphia that offers hands-on experience in zoological fields. It includes internships, college tuition assistance, and behind-the-scenes access at the zoo, aiming to inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.
- Unless Contest: Sponsored by the Albert M. Greenfield Foundation, this program challenges K-12 students to create conservation campaigns and solutions. In the recent year, 800 students from 44 classes participated, focusing on local species conservation, reducing food waste, and creating pollinator corridors.
Community Engagement and Access
The Philadelphia Zoo is deeply committed to community engagement, especially with its neighbors in West Philadelphia. It offers various programs to ensure greater access to the zoo:
- Title One Field Trips: Free admission to the zoo for school groups from nearby neighborhoods.
- Free One-Day Zoo Passes: Available to local residents and community-based organizations.
- Neighborhood Memberships: 1,000 free memberships for local families, allowing unlimited visits to the zoo.
Conservation Efforts
The zoo is actively involved in several conservation initiatives:
- Golden Lion Tamarins: Collaborative breeding and reintroduction programs have increased the wild population of this endangered primate from fewer than 200 to over 2,500.
- Rodriguez Fruit Bats: Efforts to breed and release this species have seen their numbers grow from less than 100 in 1970 to over 20,000.
- Frog Conservation: Supporting amphibian conservation through breeding programs and reintroduction efforts, emphasizing the importance of healthy ecosystems.
Future Plans and Strategic Vision
Dr. Morgerman, new to her role, discussed the upcoming strategic planning process aimed at defining the “zoo of the future.” This involves engaging the community to ensure the zoo continues to be a relevant and inspiring institution, focusing on innovative guest experiences and conservation education.
Supporting the Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo, a 501(c)(3) organization, relies on community support to continue its work. Donations can be made through their website, and there are numerous volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Zoo is much more than a place to see animals; it is a dynamic educational and conservation organization deeply rooted in its community. Through its innovative programs and commitment to accessibility and conservation, the zoo continues to inspire and educate, fostering a love for wildlife and the natural world.
For more information on the programs and how to support the Philadelphia Zoo, visit their website at philadelphiazoo.org.