Everyone loves their local zoo and when we say everyone, we mean more than 175 million visitors annually across the country. It’s not hard to see why these numbers are so high. The zoo is fun for the whole family, promotes getting out and getting your blood moving for the afternoon and most importantly, it provides an environment where people of all ages can learn about animals from all over the world.

Our zoos offer us so much and ask very little in return. However, most zoos in the United States are in constant need of donations to continue to offer their experience year after year. That’s why we came up with this quick list of fundraising ideas that Zoos can use to raise the most money.

1. Work with Other Local Organizations

Zoos are local organizations and local organizations have to support each other. Take this opportunity to reach out to them. Most will be more than happy to help you promote your zoo and your fundraiser. This can be done through percentages of sales in local restaurants and shops going towards your cause, as well as convenient, in-store ticket sales/donation boxes.

2. Raise Funds for Endangered Animals

Zoos are all about animals, so why not use your fundraising efforts to promote the animals that need help? Put on a fundraiser that uses part of the proceeds to support the conservation of endangered animals in the wild. For this fundraiser, a percentage of each dollar donated to your local zoo is given to an organization like the World Wildlife Fund or the Wildlife Conservation Society.

3. Animal Trivia

This is a fantastic event for the whole family. Take the kids out for an evening that tests their knowledge of the animal kingdom. Everyone is guaranteed to learn something new and have a blast doing it. Charge for tickets to this limited event and have concession stands open to make this as profitable as it is fun.

4. Zoo Scavenger Hunt

Write up a list of animal brain teasers that will send groups of kids and their families around the zoo searching for the animal that answers their question. It’s an unforgettable way to teach your young patrons and support your zoo.

5. Fundraising Parties

It’s as simple as throwing a party. This could be anything from a community barbecue in your local park to a formal gala in the zoo auditorium and anything in between. Throw different donor parties throughout the year to continue bringing in eager supporters of your zoo. This technique is a great way to show your gratitude for past and future donations.

6. Adopt an Animal/Exhibit

Similar to the Adopt A Highway program, but with animals. This program would allow donors to become honorary “parents” to either singular animals in your zoo or to entire exhibits. Add their names to plaques to show each zoo patron the generosity in your community.

Another spin on this idea, have your patrons support an animal of their choosing with just a dollar a day. This method breaks it down in a way that is both ongoing and affordable. It also allows you to have multiple donors giving to the same animals making the funds raised day by day limitless.

7. Commemorative Brick Campaign

Make your donors a permanent part of your zoo by literally setting their names in stone as part of a commemorative walkway, wall or structure. This fundraiser method utilizes bricks and the most cutting edge laser engraving method available today to ensure that your donors’ contribution will be remembered for the rest of their lifetime. Additionally, it will help to give your zoo a more distinct and personal look.

To find out how a commemorative brick campaign from Fundraising Brick can help support your local zoo or to get started today, contact us by phone at 855-274-2547 or click here for email options.

• Click here for more fundraising inspiration and find out how Fundraising Brick can be used for more than just zoo fundraisers.