31 minute read
Education Catalog
Gain a Trunk Full of Knowledge at the Zoo!
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fees are listed PER CHILD. These programs are designed for you and your child to explore the animal world together. Programs are hands-on and may include crafts, live animals, songs, stories, role-playing and more. NOTE: All Early Childhood Education Programs are designed for caregivers to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
FOR CHILDREN AGES 6–12 MONTHS Lumpy, Bumpy, Fuzzy, Furry
What has bumps, what has lumps, what is fuzzy and furry? Join us for a tactile exploration of animal coverings. C1112LB – November 12 (Sa); 9-10 a.m. Limited to 12 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $25
FOR CHILDREN AGES 12–24 MONTHS Penguin Pals
Dive into the wonderful world of these beautiful black and white birds. We’ll discover what they eat, how they move, and more about these amazing creatures. C1211PP – December 11 (Su); 9-10 a.m. Limited to 12 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $25
FOR CHILDREN AGES 2–3 Hiss, Growl & Squawk
Roar like a lion and chatter like a chimp while exploring how animals communicate. C0911HG – September 11 (Su); 9-10 a.m. Limited to 12 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $25
Awesome Owls
Silently fly into the wild world of owls, where we will create our own zoo owl habitats, make owl art, learn the calls of our native owl friends and more. C0218AO – February 18 (Sa); 9-10 a.m. Limited to 12 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $25
FOR CHILDREN AGES 3–5 Animals After Dark (Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park)
Have you ever wondered what animals do after dark? Come explore which animals are awake all night and what they are up to. Together we will explore the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park and look for some nocturnal animals! C1016AD – October 16 (Su); 5:30-7 p.m. Limited to 14 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $23/General Public $26
Sssnakes
Slither with us into the wonderfully weird world of snakes. C0121SN – January 21 (Sa); 9-10 a.m. Limited to 14 children Please limit to one adult attending per child Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $25
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Youth attend these programs on their own, unaccompanied by a parent or other adult.
SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 1–5
When school is on break, you can spend the day at the Saint Louis Zoo! Join our educators to learn about animals and conservation. Each day of camp will have crafts, games, Zoo tours and a whole lot of FUN!
Black Friday Camp: Black and White Animals
This day at camp will concentrate on black and white animals and how their color patterns help them in the wild. Campers will play games, make crafts and tour Zoo grounds to learn all about some of our black and white animal residents. Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee. Y1125BC – November 25 (F); 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $55/General Public $60
Black Friday Camp Before-Care
Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for Black Friday Camp participants only. Y1125AM – November 25 (F); 7-8:30 a.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $7/General Public $8
Black Friday Camp After-Care
Participants will enjoy a Zoo tour followed by indoor activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Black Friday Camp participants only. Y1125PM – November 25 (F); 4-6 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $17/General Public $19
Winter Break Camp: Animal Acrobatics
Whether it flies, crawls, slithers, swings, or swims, animals move around in incredible ways! Campers will spend this week playing fun games, making crafts, touring the Zoo and moving like the animals do. Join us for a week of hops, skips and jumps around the Zoo. Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee. Y1226WC – December 26-30 (M-F); 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $275/General Public $300
Winter Break Camp Before-Care
Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for Winter Break Camp participants only. Y1226AM – December 26-30 (M-F); 7-8:30 a.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $35/General Public $40
Winter Break Camp After-Care
Participants will visit an area of the Zoo each day followed by indoor activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Winter Break Camp participants only. Y1226PM – December 26-30 (M-F); 4-6 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $85/General Public $95
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp: Animal Adventure
From the grasslands to the trees, from the desert to the seas, animals have amazing adaptations to help them survive! Campers will adventure around the Zoo, discovering how animals live in habitats all around the world. Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee. Y0116MC – January 16 (M); 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $55/General Public $60
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp Before-Care
Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for MLK Day Camp participants only. Y0116AM – January 16 (M); 7-8:30 a.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $7/General Public $8
Gain a Trunk Full of Knowledge at the Zoo!
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp After-Care
Participants will enjoy a Zoo tour followed by indoor activities building on their camp experience. This program is for MLK Day Camp participants only. Y0116PM – January 16 (M); 4-6 p.m. Limited to 16 participants Fee: Zoo Members $17/General Public $19
SCOUT AND YOUTH GROUP PROGRAMS
The Education Department offers many opportunities for scouts and other organized youth groups to enjoy the Zoo and learn about the animal world. Programs may include biofacts, activities, games, tours or crafts. We offer a variety of programs that help scouts work towards their badge requirements! Your group will have fun together while learning about animals, their habitats and conserving natural resources. Visit the website for the scout registration packet. For more information, contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.
Warm and Fuzzies Snooze
The Saint Louis Zoo is home to some incredible endotherms (or “warm-blooded” animals)! Some endotherms have feathers, while others have fur, but all of them are able to control their own body temperatures. This means that they can survive in some pretty extreme habitats. Come discover the birds and mammals that live at the Zoo, and how being warm and fuzzy helps them to survive! Overnight evening activities will include rotations through exciting activities, an evening snack and a night hike around Zoo grounds. The morning portion of the overnight adventure includes a continental breakfast, a morning stroll around Zoo grounds to see the animals wake up, a souvenir Zoo patch and glow-in-the-dark overnight cup!
For Girl Scout Brownies and their adult chaperones
November 4; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) January 21; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) February 25; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) March 18; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) April 1; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) April 28; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
For Girl Scout Juniors and their adult chaperones
November 12; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) January 20; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) February 17; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) March 25; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) April 7; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) April 21; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
Fall 2022
For Cadettes and their adult chaperones
November 11; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) February 11; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) April 15; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
For Cub Scouts and their adult chaperones
November 18; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) January 28; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) February 3; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) March 10; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) April 22; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
For Mixed Troops and their adult chaperones
January 27; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) March 4; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) Limited to 40 participants per session Fee: $50 per participant
Private Group Overnight Programs
For organized scout, youth and school groups with participants ages 5 and up, you can schedule your own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the themes we are currently offering, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Fees listed per person.
Polar Bear Plunge
Limited to 18 participants 12 participant minimum Fee: $75 per participant
Warm and Fuzzies
Limited to 40 participants 16 participant minimum Fee: $50 per participant
FAMILY PROGRAMS
Parents and children attend these programs together. Fees are per person.
Polar Bear Plunge
For families with children ages 5 and up. Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! We will explore the Zoo at night while learning about Arctic and Antarctic animals and their unique adaptations that allow them to live in the cold. We will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kali! The overnight includes an evening snack, a reusable cup and a continental breakfast in the morning. N1202PB – December 2-3; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) N0318PB – March 18-19; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su) Limited to 18 participants Fee: Zoo Members $70/General Public $75
Turtle Tracking Safari
For families with children ages 5 and up. Limited to eight participants in the same family group. Remember, a minimum of one adult must accompany the group. This program offers a unique experience for your family to join in on a conservation research project. You will meet a field biologist and assist them with radio tracking wild box turtles living in Forest Park. Your family will learn how to use a radio antenna to locate the turtle, assist in conducting an observational health exam and record other data needed for this study. Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required. Participants meet at a designated area in Forest Park. Program Length: 90 minutes, offered May through October Fee per family group: Zoo Members $100/General Public $120 Booking times available on select days, between 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visit the website to complete a booking request form. For more information, call (314) 646-4544, option #6.
Safari Walking Tours
For families with children ages 8 and up. Limited to eight participants in the same family group. Remember, a minimum of one adult must accompany the group. Make your Zoo visit even more memorable with a Safari Walking Tour! Tag along with our professional interpretive guides as they offer insight into the animal world with engaging stories, interesting facts and animal observations. This tour does not include touching live animals or access to non-public areas. Choose one of the following topics:
Back from the Brink Walking Safari
Meet us for a tour through River’s Edge as we focus on the challenges and successes of breeding endangered species.
Here, There and Everywhere: WildCare Walking Safari
Join us as we explore why and how the Zoo is a world leader in saving endangered species through the work of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute.
Walk on the Wild Side Safari
Join our guide as you trek through the wilderness, passing through Centene Grizzly Ridge, McDonnell Polar Bear Point and the Donn & Marilyn Lipton Fragile Forest. Discover the simple things you can do to help save animals! Tour Length: 60 minutes Fee per family group: Zoo Members $60/General Public $65 Booking times available on select days, between 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visit the website to complete a booking request form. For more information, call (314) 646-4544, option #6.
Online Registration Available
Visit stlzoo.org/education for more information
ADULT PROGRAMS
FOR AGES 18 AND UP Breakfast is for the Birds
The Saint Louis Zoo is proud to be home to over 300 different kinds of birds. Join us for a hot breakfast, followed by a 3/4 mile birdwatching stroll to see native birds as well as those passing through on fall migration. The stroll will also include stops at the Bird House and the Cypress Swamp Exhibit in the historic 1904 Flight Cage. Saint Louis Zoo traces its origins to the 1904 World’s Fair, when the Smithsonian Institution commissioned the Flight Cage for the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. Program starts at Lakeside Cafe. I0924BB – September 24 (Sa); 8:30-10 a.m. See the summer program listings to register Limited to 20 participants Fee: Zoo Members $32/General Public $36
Escape the Zoo
To help the Zoo save animals from extinction, you must unlock the secrets of the Zoo through a team-building adventure! Race against time and other teams to complete your mission by solving a series of puzzles and finding clues hidden along the pathways. Use these clues to discover what the Zoo is all about! We have a new challenge this year and welcome any past participants. Build your team of up to 10 individuals, ages 18 and up. A0808EZ – August 8 (M); 6:30-8 p.m. A0913EZ – September 13 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m. See the summer program listings to register Limit to 10 participants per team Fees are PER TEAM Maximum of two teams per session Fee: Zoo Members $140/General Public $150
Healing Hike (Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park)
Did you know that spending time in nature is proven to have measurable benefits to your health? Come spend quality time discovering nature through gentle hikes, nature journaling, meditation and more. Each participant will receive their own journal to capture their nature reflective experiences. Program participants meet at the WildCare Park. A1008H1 – October 8 (Sa); 9:30-11:30 a.m. A1008H2 – October 8 (Sa); 1-3 p.m. Limited to 15 participants per session Fee: Zoo Members $32/General Public $36
Private Adult Overnight Programs
Adults age 18 and up can schedule their own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the current themes, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Fees listed are per person.
Polar Bear Plunge
Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! You will talk with Zoo staff about how we help animals all over the world and then team up to solve a scavenger hunt. After a night hike, we will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kali! This overnight includes a catered dinner and continental breakfast. Limited to 18 participants 12 participant minimum Fee: $80 per participant Visit the website to complete a booking request form. For more information, please contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.
HOME-SCHOOL GROUPS
Parents and children attend these programs together. One parent/adult must attend with the child(ren). Fees are per person. Unregistered children (siblings and infants) may not attend the programs.
Turtle Tracking
For families with children ages 5 and up. No exceptions will be made. Would you like to try field biology, use scientific tools, and contribute to an ongoing conservation research project? If so, join us to learn about how the Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Medicine (ICM) is working locally with box turtles to study their longterm movement and health by comparing ‘city’ versus ‘country’ turtles. The program includes an introductory classroom portion on Zoo grounds, then we will divide into small groups to go into Forest Park and, using radio telemetry equipment, find a box turtle in our study and record observational data for this project. NOTE: Families must provide their own transportation around Forest Park to the study site. Everyone must wear appropriate clothing (long-pants) and closed-toe walking shoes. H0909TT – September 9 (F); 1-3:30 p.m. Limited to 24 participants Fee: Zoo Members $13/General Public $17
Exploring Animal Enrichment
For families with children ages 7 and up. No exceptions will be made. Do you love getting surprise packages or new toys? Animals do too, and it’s healthy for them! At the Zoo we call it enrichment. Enrichment helps animals move around, use their senses and keep their brains busy! In our hands-on program, participants will learn what enrichment is, why the Zoo uses it and how enrichment is made. Families will have the opportunity to brainstorm and create their own small animal enrichment design! Let’s get creative! H1007AE – October 7 (F); 1-3:30 p.m. Limited to 24 participants Fee: Zoo Members $9/General Public $13
Weekly Webinars
The Education Department is pleased to offer FREE webinars, supported by The Boeing Company, each Wednesday at 10 a.m. Central Time, Labor Day through Memorial Day. These presentations are targeted for teachers and students, but anyone is welcome to join (individuals, homeschool families, scout groups, etc.) Please visit https://www.stlzoo.org/education/ conservationlearning/stlzooms for topics and descriptions, which will include an ideal grade range as well. Each presentation will last 20-30 minutes and online attendance is limited to 1000. Free registration is required. For more information, visit stlzoo.org or call (314) 646-4644, option #6.
REGISTRATION: Registrations must be received at least two weeks prior to the scheduled program date. Registration forms can be mailed or dropped off (no facsimiles accepted). Online registration available on our website. No unregistered children (siblings, infants, etc.) may attend. PARKING: Options include the Zoo’s parking lots for a fee, or free street parking throughout Forest Park for all in-person programs. PAYMENT: Complete payment is required at the time of registration. Credit cards, checks and Saint Louis Zoo Gift Cards are accepted. A separate check must be sent for each program. Check payments must be received at least three weeks prior to your program date(s). For those programs that are sold out, checks will be returned. If the balance on your Saint Louis Zoo Gift Card does not cover the cost of all your programs, you must include credit card information to cover the price difference. Use of the Saint Louis Zoo Gift Cards are subject to the Terms and Conditions listed on our website. CANCELLATIONS: A refund minus a processing fee will be issued for all cancellations received two weeks prior to the first day of the program in which you are registered ($25 for multiple day, and $8 for single day programs). Some programs are not eligible for a refund so please check your availability before registering. We reserve the right to cancel a program due to low enrollment (full refund will be issued). TRANSFERS: Two weeks’ notice and a processing fee are required to transfer ($25 for multiple day, and $8 for single day programs). IMPORTANT: To prevent the spread of COVID-19, additional restrictions will be required for attending all in-person programs. See the Terms and Conditions Section under the registration information for more details. YOUTH ATTENDEES: See the Zoo’s policy for escorting children under 14. LOCATION: Programs will be held at the Zoo or virtually via Zoom. CONFIRMATIONS: A Registration Report will be e-mailed after your registration is processed. If you prefer a mailed, paper confirmation, check the appropriate box on the registration form. Contact the Education Department at (314) 646-4544, option #6 for more information.
Sign up Now!
FALL REGISTRATION FORM Individual Registration Form
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY ONE PERSON PER FORM PHOTOCOPYPLEASE PRINT CLEARLY • ONE PERSON PER FORM • PHOTOCOPY BLANK FORMS AS NECESSARY BLANK FORMS AS NECESSARY
I am a Zoo Member and can take advantage of the discount on registration fees. Member # ________________ Level ___________________ Exp Date ____________
List Name and Address as listed on membership or list Head of Household for General Public participants:
Zoo Member/Head of Household ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Street_____________________________________________________ City_____________________________ State_______ Zip______________ Phone-home (______)_____________________ Phone-work (_______)_____________________ Phone-cell (_______)_______________________ E-mail address * _____________________________________________ * Your Registration Report will be e-mailed to you only.
Your e-mail address may be used to send you information about your Saint Louis Zoo education program. Please check here if you would also like to receive occasional email updates, news and information about other Zoo opportunities. We will not sell, trade or exchange your e-mail address with any third parties.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS (Required for all program participants)
Claims Release I, on behalf of myself and my family, recognize and acknowledge the risk existing as participant(s) in a Saint Louis Zoo program or activity. I fully and unconditionally release the Saint Louis Zoo, all associates and/or assigns from any and all claims for personal injury and/or property damage. I voluntarily declare this release to be my full acknowledgement to relinquish all rights for any and all injury and/or property damage resulting from participation in Zoo programs or activities. Photos taken by the Saint Louis Zoo staff and volunteers during any program or activity are property of the Zoo and may be used for public relations purposes related to the Zoo. The following applies for In-Person Programs: Although safety precautions as to your visit are taken by the Saint Louis Zoo, every visitor/program participant is responsible for his or her personal safety and that of children or others under their supervision. In consideration of access to the Zoo, visitors/program participants (a) agree to comply with Zoo policies and instructions, including those on signage (b) understand and agree that the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has recently infected individuals in the St. Louis area, that it is contagious and that it can spread to persons in any number of ways (c) agree that they assume responsibility for any injury (including personal injury, disability or death), illness, damage, loss claim, liability, or expense arising out of or related to COVID-19 experienced or contracted in connection with a Zoo visit/program (d) that they waive and release all claims against the Zoo and its commissioners, officers, employees, volunteers and agents relative to the foregoing matters and (e) that they agree that the Zoo is legally entitled to sovereign immunity regarding to any such claims. Medical Consent In case of emergency, I understand that every effort will be made to reach me, followed by the emergency contact. In the event that neither I, nor my emergency contact can be reached, I give my consent for my child to be taken to the nearest appropriate hospital for immediate care. If participant (listed below) is 18 years or older, participant must Sign for themselves OR if Participant (listed below) is under 18 years, Parent/Legal Guardian must Sign Signature:
Participant's First and Last Name:
Child Birth Date:
Grade:
Adult Birth Date:
Participant’s Relationship to Head of Household/Member above (son, daughter, etc):.
Check all boxes that apply to the participant. We may contact you for additional information. Asthma Shortness of Breath on Exertion Heat Sensitive Nosebleeds Sleepwalking Anxiety ASD or PDD NOS ADD or ADHD I would like information about inclusion services Cannot speak conversational English Other _________________________________
List participant’s allergies: Food Allergies Other Allergies
Are there any accommodations you would like to request for the participant? We will contact you if we are unable to meet your request. Please explain anything else you would like us to know. Will your child bring an EpiPen® or other epinephrine auto-injector? Yes No If you selected “Yes,” you must complete the FARE form (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan). Will your child need to take medication during Zoo program hours? Yes No If you selected ‘Yes’, you must complete the Zoo’s medication form for prescribed and over-the-counter medications, which can be found on the Zoo’s website. Trained Zoo personnel will only administer medication in an emergency situation. Please specify all medications that your child will be using before or during the program.
Emergency Contact Name: Phone(s): Relationship to Participant:
Program Title Program Fee Enter Program Code OR Date Choice(s)
SAMPLE Program 1. 2. $ 20 $ $ C0131SP
3. $
METHOD OF PAYMENT Complete payment is due at the time of registration.
CHECK – you must register at least three weeks prior to your program date(s). Please make all checks payable to: "Saint Louis Zoo Ed Dept" A SEPARATE CHECK MUST BE PROVIDED FOR EACH PROGRAM REQUESTED. A fee will be charged for checks returned due to insufficient funds.
Saint Louis Zoo GIFT CARD – you must register at least two weeks prior to your program date(s). AMOUNT FROM GIFT CARD $_________ Please list the information from the back of the Zoo Gift Card: NUMBER ______________________________________ BID _____________________ CVV _________ List Name of adult attending with child for programs beginning with “C” Jane Doe (Mom)
Mail Registrations Form(s) and payment to:
CREDIT CARD - you must register at least two weeks prior to your program date(s). VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER AMERICAN EXPRESS TOTAL AMOUNT DUE $_________ Please complete the following information: CARDHOLDER NAME ________________________________ SIGNATURE ________________________________ BILLING ADDRESS (Street) _______________________________ (City, State, Zip) __________________________ CARDHOLDER PHONE NUMBER(S) ________________________________________________________________ ACCT NO __________________________________________________ EXP. DATE (month/year) _____/_____ SAINT LOUIS ZOO Registration ATTN: Finance Dept One Government Drive Saint Louis, MO 63110
For the Love of Words, Science and Animals: Zoo ALIVE Teens Take Conservation Action Virtual Remembering Carol Gronau
By Cait McGrath, Donor Relations Manager
Carol Gronau with friends Janet Jackson and Senior Vice President, External Relations, Cynthia Holter
The Saint Louis Zoo lost a dear friend and advocate for the Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine (ICM) in June 2021 with the passing of Carol Gronau. Carol had a passion for conservation and science. In 2015, Carol purchased an imaging system for the ICM molecular lab, which helped make infectious disease testing possible. It was during a visit to the lab that Carol decided to dedicate her time and talents as an ICM volunteer.
“We are so grateful to have known her,” reflected ICM Director Sharon Deem, DVM, Ph.D., DACZM. “Carol was a cherished member of our team and brought her editing skills to tasks such as editing fact sheets. She also helped organize thousands of photos and blood slides, all the while asking questions about our projects and advocating for our work.”
Carol started volunteering at the Zoo in 1993 as a docent and was a Marlin Perkins Society member for 23 years. Her legacy working with the ICM team will continue, thanks to a generous gift to the Zoo Endowment for research and conservation medicine. Through this gift, her love of the Zoo, words, science and animals will live forever and will continue to inspire the entire Zoo community. n
Wells Fargo Cares about Conservation
By Hannah Stater, Partnership Marketing Coordinator
Wells Fargo is a dedicated Saint Louis Zoo supporter and corporate member of the Marlin Perkins Society, making an invaluable philanthropic impact on the St. Louis region and greater conservation community.
In the early 2000s, Wells Fargo pledged to support the Zoo’s Gateway to the Animal World Campaign, a contribution now recognized along “Raja’s Trail” in River’s Edge. Wells Fargo also supported the construction of the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel, which has been enjoyed by over 6 million riders since opening in 2003.
Wells Fargo then gave a generous gift to The Living Promise Campaign to build the pedestrian bridge over Wells Drive, completed in 2010, which enhanced the experience of guests who arrived at the Zoo’s South Lot.
Wells Fargo has been the presenting sponsor of A Zoo Ado and ZOOFARI, the Zoo’s largest summer fundraisers, for 14 years. Proceeds from these events help the Saint Louis Zoo’s conservation efforts here and around the world.
Throughout the years, Wells Fargo has contributed to the financial well-being of the Zoo and provided their employees with the opportunity to see their contributions up-close through volunteerism across Zoo grounds. Their employees also get the chance to experience Boo at the Zoo with their families each year through exclusive Wells Fargo nights.
The Saint Louis Zoo is incredibly grateful for Wells Fargo’s outstanding support throughout the years and looks forward to continuing our relationship for many years to come. n
These Women are Giving Machines!
The Animal Health team provides the best possible care for all animals. Pictured is staff performing an abdominal ultrasound on a ring-tailed lemur during a wellness examination (Fall 2019). Support from donors helped the Zoo purchase a new portable anesthesia machine as well as a multi-parameter anesthetic monitor for the Animal Health team
By Cait McGrath, Donor Relations Manager
The Saint Louis Zoo cares for animals in many ways, from ensuring animals have stimulating habitats and enrichment to providing comprehensive veterinary care. On the same note, there are countless unique ways to support our animal care work. Three donors — Lisa Mechele, De Kaplan and Estelle Siteman — have given generously to support the purchase of various medical and research equipment for the Saint Louis Zoo Endangered Species Research Center & Veterinary Hospital.
Lisa Mechele began her philanthropic journey with the Zoo when she realized that she wanted to be an active participant with her charitable giving. Lisa’s giving-whileliving approach allows her to witness the impact of her giving while kindling her love and knowledge of Africa and its endangered animals. Her gift to the Veterinary Hospital helped staff purchase an ultrasound machine and probes, special observation research workstations, and other necessary equipment for animal care, treatment, and reproduction research.
“I’ve visited Africa several times over the last 20 years,” Lisa said. “But the last few visits, I have noticed fewer and fewer of its incredible animal populations, which devastates me. I wanted to support an organization that would directly benefit them. The Saint Louis Zoo, with its local and international WildCare Institute Conservation Centers, fit perfectly. And I love that my gift could be used immediately to help the Zoo’s conservation efforts and to treat the animals that needed those machines!”
Estelle Siteman and De Kaplan had a similar revelatory moment during the pandemic. “It was the uncertainty during the pandemic that really hit home,” Estelle said. “As other parts of my life continued to change to a new normal, I wanted to help keep one thing static: the future care and protection of animals. The Zoo offered a perfect solution and allowed my family and me to ensure our future legacy would support animals both here and in the wild.”
Additionally, Estelle encouraged her family to help care for the animals at the Zoo. A gift was received from the Siteman Family Charitable Fund, a component fund of the St. Louis Community Foundation, to support the Zoo’s purchase of a new portable anesthesia machine as well as a multiparameter anesthetic monitor for the Animal Health team.
“These gifts, and these donors, are just incredible!” said Chris Hanley, DVM, DACZM, Director of Animal Health at the Zoo. “To know that folks outside of our organization see the needs we have to provide our animals with the best possible care, and then actively support them, really moves me. These may not be the most glamorous opportunities for generosity, but they are critical for my staff and the animals here at the Zoo, especially as we expand to additional campuses.”
Designated gifts like these can often support important purchases, like our equipment to support animal health, and have an equally impressive impact on the Zoo and its mission of Animals Always. n
Michael Neidorff: A Lifelong Legacy of Philanthropy
Noémi and Michael Neidorff
By Cait McGrath, Donor Relations Manager
St. Louis lost an incredible leader in business and philanthropy with the passing of Michael Neidorff on April 7, 2022. As the CEO of Centene Corporation, Michael helped the company gift millions of dollars to institutions across the country, especially the Saint Louis Zoo.
“We lost a great leader, businessman, philanthropist, and personally, I lost a good friend in Michael,” reflected Jeffrey P. Bonner, Ph.D., President Emeritus of the Saint Louis Zoo. “At Michael’s request, we traveled to Botswana and South Africa together so that he could immerse himself in the wild wonders that our Zoo works so hard to protect and conserve. His generous gifts to the Zoo, both personal and through Centene, were always supported by his admiration for our work. I will always cherish those memories of sharing the natural beauties of Botswana and South Africa with him.”
Michael led Centene for more than 25 years, guiding the organization to expand its philanthropic reach nationally while also supporting local St. Louis institutions. Centene’s most notable gift to the Zoo was to Centene Grizzly Ridge in 2017, a gift that reflected the mission of the Centene Charitable Foundation to improve the quality of life for families and their communities. The Foundation is a steadfast Marlin Perkins Society corporate member, and Centene has hosted its employee appreciation events at the Zoo for several years. Additionally, Michael was an esteemed member on the Saint Louis Zoo Association Board. Clearly, Michael’s passion for the Zoo carried over to his role at Centene, much to the pleasure of many of its employees who enjoyed their company connection to the Zoo.
Michael’s generosity to the Zoo increased with a personal gift from him and his family to name the Neidorff Family Carousel Plaza in 2017. This area is beloved by families and guests to the Zoo for its stunning up-close views of the Caribbean flamingos, access to Fragile Forest and McDonnell Polar Bear Point, and of course, the magical Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel.
“Michael and Noémi Neidorff are incredible leaders in our community, and I am grateful to have had their support and friendship over the years,” said Cynthia S. Holter, Senior Vice President of External Relations at the Zoo. “One of my fondest memories of Mr. Neidorff was being on a golf cart with him and Noémi during an event at the Zoo for Centene employees and their families. There were nearly 10,000 guests there that day, and he waved to everyone he saw and knew so many by name. He even hopped off the cart to take family photos and enjoy some cotton candy. Everyone thanked him for sharing the Zoo, and it was a really special day for all of us.”
Michael leaves behind a legacy of charity, gratitude, passion, determination and trust that he had built amongst other St. Louis leaders and institutions. We will all feel the loss that his passing leaves in the history of St. Louis’s greatest leaders. n
Young guests enjoy observing a grizzly bear at Centene Grizzly Ridge
Marlin Perkins Society
The Saint Louis Zoo is extremely fortunate to have the support of more than 1,300 generous individuals, foundations and corporations through the Marlin Perkins Society. We welcome our newest members to the Society and thank them for joining this wonderful group of supporters. To our current members who have increased their financial support, we are pleased to recognize you as well. We are grateful for your commitment to our mission.
New Marlin Perkins Society Members February 1 – April 30, 2022 American Metals Supply B&N Inspection Erin & Jason Beam John & Penelope Biggs Barry T. Cervantes Justin & Danielle Colbert GRP Wegman Co. Joe, Tara, Noah & Grant Hahn Hansen’s Tree Services &
Environmental Resources Andrew, Erin, Zayne & Ryker Haskins Michael & Courtney Jordan Tamara Keefe The Kuhn Foundation Scott MacArthur Dwight & Kathy Scott Scout Realty Group Mark & Jennifer Stirnemann Visionary Wealth Advisors Terry Williams Brenda & Tina Willis
Current Marlin Perkins Society Members Who Have Increased Support February 1 – April 30, 2022 American Metals Supply Mrs. Mary Randolph Ballinger (25) Susan M. Barrett Kevin & Debra Bastien Dan Berglund & Dr. Suellen Greco Jerico & Stephanie Collins Mr. & Mrs. Paul Dalba Paul & Suzy Davis Margaret & Gordon Finley William T. Gamewell (10) Peter & Jennifer Goessling Elizabeth Green Hauser Mechanical, Inc. Jen & Matt Heisel Family Milton Hieken & Barbara Barenholtz The Hunter Family Foundation Elizabeth & Austin Kent Gary & Patricia Krosch (10) Bruce & Diana Linders (10) Kenneth & Holly McGarrahan Randy J. & Cathy M. Meisner Mr. & Mrs. Jason Mills Steve & Karen Reese Rich & Louise Renner Fred & Emily Schrick Neal & Jayne Schroeder In Memory of Patricia Swartz Bob & Sara Tehan The Webb Family James & Dana Whalen (10) Mr. & Mrs. James Woodworth (15)
(10) denotes member for at least 10 years (15) denotes member for at least 15 years (25) denotes member for at least 25 years Please contact the Development Office at (314) 646-4859 if you: • Would like information on how you can join or increase your support to the Marlin Perkins Society • Discover a discrepancy or have a question (the Zoo makes every effort to acknowledge all gifts and to maintain accurate records)
