Who We Are

Mission

The Cleveland Zoological Society and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo share a joint mission: We create compelling experiences that connect people with wildlife and inspire personal responsibility for conserving the natural world.

Our Story

The Cleveland Zoo Society has a proud history beginning in 1957. As the independent nonprofit partner of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, we exist to raise philanthropic support for and public awareness of the Zoo. This public/private partnership allows both organizations to flourish. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has become nationally recognized as one of the best zoos in the United States. And, closer to home, the Zoo is a cherished community gem that individuals and families from all walks of life have come to know and love. The Cleveland Zoo Society helps make all that possible. Each year, the Zoo Society provides Cleveland Metroparks Zoo $3 million for programs and operating support, and we also raise money for capital improvement projects across the Zoo. This funding is a blend of generous gifts for current use and long-term support.

Supporting Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is more important now than ever before. The Zoo provides the Northeast Ohio community the chance to connect with wildlife and become inspired to conserve the natural world. It educates thousands of schoolchildren each year and hosts more than 1.2 million visitors. Each donation helps ensure our community has access to not only see amazing animals first-hand, but also to learn what one person’s support can do to help care for species in the wild.

And now the Cleveland Zoo Society has even bigger plans because the needs are greater. We will develop new and innovative ways to meet them. We will have a stronger voice to communicate our objectives and the results they will deliver. We will be resourceful, dedicated, and forever passionate about what we do. And, we will be unwavering in our mission to secure ongoing financial support for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.