Photo Credit: Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren | Woodland Park Zoo
About Woodland Park Zoo
Woodland Park Zoo, founded in 1899, has been a cherished destination for generations of Northwest families, sparking joy, wonder, and discovery. Each year, the zoo welcomes over a million visitors, connecting people of all ages to the wonders of the natural world. Through engaging animal experiences, hands-on science learning, and impactful conservation programs, Woodland Park Zoo inspires a lifelong love of wildlife and empowers communities to take meaningful action to protect our planet.
Woodland Park Zoo's Mission
Woodland Park Zoo’s mission is to save wildlife and inspire people to make conservation a priority in their lives. The zoo believes that meaningful encounters with animals and nature can cultivate empathy, spark curiosity, and foster a lifelong commitment to protecting the natural world. Each year, Woodland Park Zoo serves as a dynamic community hub where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can learn, connect, and experience the richness of wildlife. Through immersive exhibits, collaborative conservation efforts, and inclusive educational programming, the zoo works toward a future where both people and wildlife can thrive.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren | Woodland Park Zoo
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Impact of the Wockner Foundation's Grant
In 2024, the Wockner Foundation’s generous grant played a pivotal role in supporting Woodland Park Zoo’s mission. With this support, the zoo welcomed thousands of visitors from North King County and South Snohomish County—regions that together accounted for more than half of total attendance—and delivered high-quality, nature-based experiences that inspired curiosity and learning.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren | Woodland Park Zoo
The Foundation’s funding helped sustain initiatives that reduce financial and accessibility barriers, supported vital conservation programs such as the Oregon Silverspot Butterfly and Western Pond Turtle recovery efforts, and enabled the creation of inclusive educational tools like the multilingual Nature Play Toolkit. Additionally, the grant contributed to community-focused outreach programs, including the Community Access Program, field trips for Title I schools, and tailored experiences for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Through this investment, the Wockner Foundation helped expand the zoo’s regional impact and deepened its ability to connect people with nature.