The Zoo’s Fundz for Kidz is a fund that directly supports the Salisbury Zoo’s Education Department and is held at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.
Education and conservation are integral to the mission of all great zoos – and the Salisbury Zoo is no exception. The Salisbury Zoo Education Department is a unique, regional resource — promoting an understanding of and appreciation for wildlife, and encouraging the protection of our environment. By focusing the visitors’ attention on the careful observation and active investigation our world, we hope to provide them with the skills necessary to better understand nature, and to instill an appreciation for the diversity of animals and their habitats.
Scope of Programs
The Zoo strives to channel the excitement and wonder our visitors have for living animals into a positive and supportive environment conducive to higher learning. A wide variety of interactive conservation education programs, aligned with state and national science standards, are designed to meet the needs of teachers and students. Both on-site and off-site programs are offered. Public programs are also available for people of all ages in our community — from story time for toddlers, to ZooSnooZ overnights for Scout groups and family workshops.
The Salisbury Zoo Education Department reached approximately 20,000 students last year through educational programs – and volunteers helped us do it. Friendly, knowledgeable volunteers, including Zoo docents, members of the Maryland Conservation Corps and a full-time AmeriCorps member, serve as wildlife interpreters, helping to carry out the mission of the Department and the Zoo. Our wildlife interpreters have the unique opportunity to share their enthusiasm for wildlife while serving their community. School children, families and other members of our community who visit the Zoo enjoy an enhanced experience, and benefit from their skilled interpretation and welcoming smiles. With the help of the animal ambassadors on exhibit, we hope that the appreciation for wildlife our staff and volunteers inspire, and the conservation messages they impart will have a positive, lasting effect not only on our visitors, but also on wild animals and their fragile habitats.
The Education Department exists solely on revenue generated from grants, donations and program fees. No City tax dollars are used to support the Education Department. Strong community support and creative partnerships allow the Department to leverage funding ensuring high-quality education programs. The continued growth of the Education Department benefits our region exponentially.
All donations are thru the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. Please click here to visit their website or call 410-677-3670.