If bears were into slang, they would say Susie’s Bear Hollow, the new interconnected habitat for Andean bears and sloth bears at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, was downright “bad.” Which means better than good.
At 18,000-square-feet, the habitat is three times bigger than the bears’ former space and includes an equally “bad” treehouse with glass viewing. The $8.5 million project opened in September, supported in part by $3.5 million from the Cleveland Zoological Society, the zoo’s nonprofit and advocate partner.
“There were two families whose children helped in the donation process,” says Sarah Crupi, CEO of the nonprofit. “One reason the parents are doing this is to teach the kids that if you have the ability to give back, you should.”
Andrea Ponikvar, director of advancement, emphasizes contributions of all amounts from donors of all ages and demographics are vital.
“It’s a pretty common misconception that philanthropy is only for people of high net worth,” says Ponikvar. “But we have a lot of members who are young families or who are early in their careers. They might not even realize that their membership in the Cleveland Zoological Society is actually a donation to support the work the zoo does.”
The opportunity to vote online for the names of baby animals born at the zoo is reserved for those who make a financial contribution. But that money is also considered a donation.
Crupi points out that between memberships and other donations, the Zoo Society raises $7 to $10 million a year, and that 75% of that money comes from individuals, not large corporate sponsorships. Over forty thousand households hold annual memberships. Since 2000, the Zoo Society has provided more than $40 million earmarked for capital improvement projects.
“Big donations are wonderful. But we always need the bread and butter, the gifts to help us while we are out there fundraising for those big projects,” says Ponikvar, who, along with her husband, are monthly donors. “Giving one lump sum can be tough on a budget. But this way it’s consistent and predictable. We don’t really miss the money, and we don’t forget to do it.”
Ponikvar suggests two popular ways to contribute: Support a Species welcomes all donation amounts, and the opportunity allows everyone to bolster the health and well-being of the zoo’s animals. For certain gift levels, donors receive a plush animal and/or an exclusive pin of featured species.
“Making even a small gift can have a huge impact. They add up fast,” says Ponikvar, who says the current featured animal is the Sloth bear.
The Pride, a group made up of donors who give $1,000 and up, supports annual unrestricted funding to the zoo. Donors’ dollars focus on animal care, the introduction of inquiry-based science, educating guests on the role of local animals and advising and supporting zoo partners who protect the most at-risk animals. Also, 10% of each zoo membership is earmarked for the support of wildlife conservation around the world.
“A lot of our donors have a huge affinity for the zoo. Some came here as kids and are now bringing their grandchildren,” says Crupi, adding that the zoo attracts 1.3 million visitors a year. “Others became inspired to go into science because they came here.”
And really, some donors just like elephants, hippos, gorillas, tigers and bears.
“It’s important for nonprofits to connect with people of all ages, because it builds a better society,” says Crupi. “And we want to cultivate those donors for the next 10 or 20 years. We appreciate the person who gives us $100 as much as $1,000.”
