The Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy, fundraising partner to your Toronto Zoo, has launched a $60M community campaign to meet investment needs and enhance the impact of critical science and education programs.

Paired with over $180 million in capital investment from the government, this campaign will position your Toronto Zoo as a world-class institution for a world-class city.

The Guardians Campaign is an investment in the future. As we confront the dual challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, we are confident in our expertise and ability to drive meaningful, lasting change.

This campaign will strengthen our ability to care for animals, advance conservation science, and inspire our community to protect nature for generations to come.

Every dollar raised through the Guardians Campaign will go directly toward:

• Community & Education – Toronto Zoo Community Conservation Centre – a public learning hub where visitors can explore interactive exhibits, attend workshops, and connect with conservation science inspiring action both locally and abroad.

Current demand for education programs exceeds our capacity. We are seeking support to ensure students are prepared for the challenges of the future.

• Animal Well-being and Habitat Enhancements – Modern, spacious, and enriching natural environments that exceed accreditation standards and provide stimulating mental and physical activity for the animals in our professional care.

Your Toronto Zoo leads the way in animal welfare, and we’re taking the next steps by creating climate-controlled spaces so guests can enjoy unforgettable animal experiences in every season. With support, not only will we will enhance habitats to encourage natural behaviours, we’ll also transform all-season viewing.

• Conservation Science – Inspired by the endless possibilities of pioneering science research, your Toronto Zoo leads efforts to secure biodiversity and restore genetically healthy, sustainable wildlife populations for future generations.

Although globally recognized for conservation science leadership, there is little awareness in Toronto and limited funding. With investment, your Toronto Zoo can increase our impact, protect Canadian wildlife and engage more PhD candidates for meaningful research.

Funding priorities for the Guardian Campaign are determined by the Zoo’s Campus Plan, and the Strategic Plan, both of which were developed with input from our many stakeholders and communities including wildlife care, animal husbandry, conservation scientists, educators, staff, volunteers, architects, planners and community stakeholders.

Donor contributions are carefully allocated to projects and purposes per donor wishes, and progress updates and reports are shared regularly so doors can see the tangible impact of their generosity.

We believe in transparency. Donors are kept informed through regular updates, progress reports, newsletters, and inspiring stories that show the impact of their generosity. Each year, we also publish an Annual Report including financial statements and campaign milestones, available on our website for everyone to see.

Yes. While general campaign contributions allow us to direct funds where they are most urgently needed, you may also designate your gift toward a specific project within the Guardians Campaign such as the Toronto Zoo Community Conservation Centre, the Red Panda Habitat, the Indoor African Savanna or conservation science which includes our cryobank initiatives.

Yes. Donors can choose from a variety of recognition opportunities—from naming new habitats, and buildings to spaces within the Toronto Zoo Community Conservation Centre to sponsoring education or conservation programs. These opportunities are a meaningful way to create a lasting legacy while supporting wildlife and conservation.

For more information on naming opportunities, please contact Alison Kenn, Campaign Manager at 416-392-5983 or akenn@torontozoo.ca.

It is easy to donate online with a one-time or monthly gift via credit card, by sending a cheque, or gifting securities like stocks.

Other ways to give include:

• Including Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy as a beneficiary in your will,
• Designating the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy as the beneficiary and/or owner of a new or existing life insurance policy,
• Naming the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy as the beneficiary of your pension plan, RRSP, RRIF, or TFSA,
• Setting up a charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust, or
• Making a gift of property, such as real estate, jewelry, or art

We encourage you to discuss specifics with your financial planner and/or your lawyer.

Please reach out to Marion Zimmer, Director of Development at 416-392-9105 or mzimmer@torontozoo.ca if you are interested in learning more.

You can give online or by mail.

For more details, or to speak a member of our development team about your giving options, please contact Alison Kenn, Campaign Manager at 416-392-5983 or akenn@torontozoo.ca.

We’re happy to answer questions and help you find the best way to make an impact.