Personal Giving Stories

A Love for Elephants Creates a Lasting Legacy

“It has been a joy to support the Zoo because of the excellence we have seen at every level throughout the years.”

Celebrating and Supporting Conservation Heroes

“Indianapolis is fortunate to host something so unique, so special, and so life-changing.”

Couples’ Shared Love of Indy Zoo Inspires Estate-Plan Gift to Continue Their Support

“We want as many animals to exist on this planet when Avelyn is 90 as the day she was born.”

Spauldings Are Committed to the Future of the Zoo and Included It in Their Estate Plan

“Spend a day or two at the Zoo, and you will become committed to the future as well.”

Longtime Supporter and Volunteer Makes Estate-Plan Gift to Benefit “Magnificent Zoo”

“Making the Indianapolis Zoo a part of my estate plan gives me joy and hope for the future.”

Of Mice and Elephants: Fred and Beth Cate Give Money—and Get Their Hands Dirty

“This fund will advance the Zoo’s mission to conserve wild animals and places by enhancing the well-being of both the keepers and the animals—including our beloved elephant Tombi.”

Couple Loves Volunteering and Zoo Trips, and That Leads to Gift in Will

“Our respect for the Zoo and its mission made it an organization high on our list for bequest support.”

Why Include the Indianapolis Zoo in Your Estate Planning

Charly, one of the orangutans, and the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center are dear to Pat Scahill.

Avid Volunteers Laud Zoo Programs, Add Zoo to Estate Plans

“Like many others in central Indiana, we are avid animal lovers, but we are especially interested in the advancement of animal conservation (the Zoo’s mission), education, and research.”

Why Barbara Woodard Gives to the Zoo: Teach Children to Save the Animals

Our amazing, not-for-profit zoo depends on monetary support and dedication.

Jodie Baker: Fellowship Provides "An Extraordinary Career"

I have been in the animal field for over 30 years, and I just love what I do.

Scott Wilson: Feline Friendship

My love for animals most likely started at birth, but 28 years ago, after having a real passion for "big cats," I bought my first domestic cat for a pet.

Molly A. Shane

Almost as simple as how I was able to name the Indianapolis Zoo in my gift planning are the reasons why I decided to do it.

Mike and Pam Luenz: Caring from Near and Afar

"Lions and tigers and bears"—and its other various creatures are all reasons why we support the Indianapolis Zoo and have done so since the Zoo relocated to downtown in the White River area many years ago.

Rhonda Kittle: Teaching to Inspire and Conserve

As a child spending summers on a lake in northern Indiana, Rhonda Kittle learned to love water and all that was a part of it.

Karen Stierer: Caring for Conservation

As fan of animals since her childhood, Karen Stierer found a particular enthusiasm for "big cats," e.g., lions, tigers, etc., courtesy of the 1970s television series Born Free.

Kay Koch: Proud to Support the Zoo

By a gift through her trust, Kay Koch has been able to support the mission of the Indianapolis Zoo and her good friends like Tombi the African elephant.