Summary of Zoo Update from GLAZA President Tom Jacobson – July 2023:
The Beastly Ball was a successful gala event at the Zoo, honoring Trustee Diann Kim and Councilmember Tom LaBonge. The event raised over $1.6 million, exceeding its goal by $250,000. The funds will support various initiatives at the Zoo, including Betty White’s Zoo Pals program for school visitors. The Zoo’s membership has grown to over 43,000 households, and plans for new attractions and improvements exist. The President of GLAZA, Tom Jacobson, thanked all the donors and members for their support in saving species and providing animal care.
– The author attended the Beastly Ball and emphasized the passionate commitment of attendees to animal conservation.
– The event honored notable figures, including Trustee Diann Kim and the late Councilmember Tom LaBonge.
– The Beastly Ball raised over $1.6 million, exceeding its goal and setting a record for the paddle raise for Betty White’s Zoo Pals.
– The fiscal year’s figures are finalized, but the Zoo has received significant philanthropic support in the last twelve months.
– The Zoo has experienced membership growth and will show appreciation to members in August.
– Numerous positive changes are coming to the Zoo, including the return of giraffe feedings, Muriel’s Ranch, and the World of Birds Show.
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Attending the recent Beastly Ball was a remarkable experience as an avid animal lover. It was my second time attending this GLAZA gala, and after nearly four years working at the Zoo, it felt more like a party among old friends than anything else. Every corner I turned, I was met with individuals who shared my deep passion for animals and wildlife conservation. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and dedication to our beloved Zoo.
One particular aspect of the evening that tugged at my heartstrings was bidding farewell to an old friend. In previous years, I had proudly worn a Beastly Ball shirt to show my support for this incredible event. But this year, the shirt found a new home. Trustee Rob Ellis won the bid for the shirt in the silent auction, and knowing that the parting was for a good cause softened the blow.
Now, let’s delve into the true essence of this year’s Beastly Ball. It was an emotional and heartfelt occasion as we paid tribute to two extraordinary individuals: Trustee Diann Kim and the late Councilmember Tom LaBonge. Diann’s many years of leadership on our Board of Trustees were rightfully celebrated, while Tom was honored as our Betty White Conservation Hero. Tom’s tremendous efforts in adding 500 acres to Griffith Park made him a true champion of the environment. And, in a beautiful coincidence, Betty White was present in spirit through an estate gift that initiated the renaming of the Zoo’s signature program for school visitors to Betty White’s Zoo Pals. This gesture exemplifies the power of collaboration and the impact that passionate individuals can have on the world.
The Beastly Ball was a celebration and an opportunity for passionate animal lovers to make a difference. Our remarkable attendees, whether physically present or generously contributing through the silent auction, helped us achieve a record-breaking result. We raised over $1.6 million, surpassing our goal by over $250,000. The paddle raise for Betty White’s Zoo Pals was especially historic, collecting more than $225,000. These incredible contributions will enable us to bring the joy of the Zoo to Los Angeles schoolchildren and, in turn, foster their love and appreciation for wildlife. Thank you to everyone for your unwavering generosity in supporting GLAZA and the Zoo.
In addition to the success of the Beastly Ball, we are still finalizing the figures for the fiscal year. One thing is clear, though: our members and donors have displayed remarkable philanthropy in the past twelve months. Special gifts and grants have been dedicated to essential areas such as veterinary equipment, new technology to combat wildlife trafficking at LAX, and a grant fund designed to support off-site training for our dedicated Zoo staff. Furthermore, our membership base has grown significantly as we continue recovering from the challenges of the pandemic. We now have over 43,000 households as valued members of our Zoo family. To express our gratitude, we have designated August as Member Appreciation Month. This month, we will offer exclusive perks to our members, including daily branded giveaways, BOGO (Buy One, Get One) treat coupons, and an additional 10% off (totaling 20% off) in the International Marketplace. We hope these offerings will make your visits all the more special as we celebrate your unwavering support.
Looking to the future, we are thrilled to announce several tremendous changes coming to the Zoo. This summer, we welcome the return of giraffe feedings and the reopening of Muriel’s Ranch and the World of Birds Show. These additions serve as testaments to our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible care for our animal residents and working diligently to save species from the brink of extinction.
In conclusion, the 2023 Beastly Ball was a resounding success filled with heartwarming moments, inspiring honorees, and record-breaking generosity. It was a testament to the passionate dedication of individuals who believe in preserving and protecting the natural world. As we move into the new fiscal year, we eagerly anticipate further growth and positive changes at the Zoo, all made possible by our wonderful community’s ongoing support and collaboration. So, come and visit us this summer and allow us to celebrate you and your vital role in our mission to save wildlife. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our animal friends and secure a brighter future for our planet.
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