Our Work
The Brights Zoo Wildlife Foundation was created to strengthen the work already taking place at Brights Zoo and to provide additional resources for projects that can make a lasting difference for animals, conservation, education, and the future of the zoo.
Our work is focused on areas where charitable support can have a direct and meaningful impact.
Exceptional Animal Care
Caring for more than 1,000 animals representing more than 120 species requires a tremendous commitment of time, expertise, and resources.
The Foundation helps support the needs that allow our animal care team to provide the highest level of care possible, including:
- Specialized diets and nutrition
- Veterinary care and medical equipment
- Enrichment programs
- Habitat improvements
- Animal care equipment
- Professional development for animal care staff
Every contribution helps strengthen the resources available to the people who care for these animals every day.
Conservation
Conservation has always been an important part of Brights Zoo.
The zoo has participated in responsible breeding efforts, long-term population management, and projects designed to strengthen important bloodlines within managed animal populations.
The Foundation seeks to support conservation projects that have clear, measurable value—whether that means improving breeding facilities, participating in collaborative programs, supporting field conservation, or helping protect species for future generations.
Education
We believe conservation begins when people develop a connection with wildlife.
The Foundation supports educational opportunities that help children and adults better understand animals, their habitats, and the importance of protecting the natural world.
Our goals include expanding educational programming, improving learning materials, supporting keeper talks and animal experiences, and creating opportunities for students to learn directly from the animals and professionals at Brights Zoo.
Facilities & Habitats
Providing exceptional animal care requires quality facilities.
As Brights Zoo continues to grow, the Foundation can help support the construction, renovation, and improvement of animal habitats and support facilities.
Projects may include:
- New or expanded animal habitats
- Indoor and winter holding facilities
- Veterinary and quarantine areas
- Nutrition and food-preparation facilities
- Educational spaces
- Equipment and infrastructure needed for animal care
These investments can benefit animals and animal care professionals for decades.
Supporting the People Who Care for the Animals
Exceptional animal care depends on exceptional people.
One of the Foundation’s long-term goals is to help strengthen the animal care team by supporting additional keeper positions, continuing education, specialized training, and the tools staff members need to do their jobs effectively.
Investing in knowledgeable, experienced animal care professionals is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of Brights Zoo.
Special Projects
Some of the most meaningful opportunities do not fit neatly into a single category.
The Foundation may support special conservation initiatives, equipment purchases, emergency animal needs, research partnerships, educational projects, or other opportunities that directly advance our mission.
When those opportunities arise, charitable support gives us the ability to act.
Building for the Future
Brights Zoo was built over many years through the commitment and financial support of the Bright family.
The Brights Zoo Wildlife Foundation creates an opportunity for others who share our passion for animals and conservation to become part of what comes next.
With the support of donors, businesses, foundations, and community partners, we can expand what is possible—providing exceptional care today while building a stronger future for animals, conservation, and education.
