Overview
What is Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc?
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc, based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care. Managing and operating the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, they integrate conservation messages into all aspects of their operations, from education programs to keeper chats. The Zoo participates in conservation and management programs for over 90 rare and endangered animal species through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), including Species Survival Plans, Taxon Advisory Groups, and SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction). The organization's mission is brought to life with the help of an Animal Research and Conservation Committee, facilitating partnerships with local and worldwide organizations. In 2022, the Zoo welcomed 601,427 guests, experiencing increased membership numbers and renewals. Special events like Dino Days and Wild Zoo Wonderland drew large crowds, while education and private events contributed to record attendance and revenue. Plans are underway for continued growth in 2023.
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator Rating: 95% (Four-Star out of Four Stars)
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc has received an impressive Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its strong performance in accountability and finance, impact measurement, and community engagement. The organization scored particularly high in leadership and adaptability, with a perfect score of 100, indicating effective governance and strategic planning. The presence of a majority independent board and comprehensive financial oversight further enhances its credibility.
The organization has also excelled in evaluating its impact and gathering feedback, with perfect scores in both areas. This suggests a strong commitment to understanding and improving its programs based on stakeholder input. However, while the program expense ratio is respectable at 61.88%, there may be room for improvement to ensure a greater portion of funds directly support its initiatives.
Overall, the Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc demonstrates a solid commitment to transparency and effective programming, with its robust policies and independent governance structure providing a trustworthy foundation for its operations. While the organization faces challenges like any nonprofit, its proactive approach to feedback and equity strategies positions it well for continued success.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.
Is Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc legitimate?
Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.
Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:
Executive Compensation: $326,494
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $4,941,022
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
What is the mission statement of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc?
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc aims to connect children with animals, strengthen families, and inspire people to care. They accomplish this mission through the management and operation of the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. The zoo integrates conservation messages into all aspects of its operations, from education programs to keeper chats. The zoo participates in conservation and management programs for over 90 rare and endangered animal species, working in collaboration with organizations like the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). The zoo's Animal Research and Conservation Committee facilitates partnerships with various local and worldwide organizations to further promote animal welfare and conservation efforts.
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
Who is the CEO of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc?
Chris Gomez is the President of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc.
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
What is the revenue of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc?
Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc's revenue in 2022 was $15,430,147.
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
Who are the executives of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc during 2022 was $18,746. There are 281 employees and 450 volunteers at Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc.
Here are 28 key members and their salaries:
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Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc?
Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.kidszoo.org
Learn more at the official website: www.kidszoo.org
Mission Statement of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society, Inc. is a dedicated organization that strives to bring kids and animals together, strengthen families, and inspire care for the natural world. Realizing this mission, the Fort Wayne Zoological Society, Inc. manages and operates the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. The zoo integrates conservation messages into all aspects of its operations, from educational programs to keeper chats.
By participating in conservation and management programs for more than 90 rare and endangered animal species, Fort Wayne Zoological Society, Inc. makes a significant impact on wildlife survival. It collaborates with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) on various initiatives such as Species Survival Plans, Taxon Advisory Groups, and SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction). Moreover, the organization has an Animal Research and Conservation Committee that fosters partnerships with both local and international organizations to further its conservation efforts.
Fort Wayne Zoological Society, Inc. achieves its mission by not only offering a captivating and educational experience for visitors but also promoting wildlife conservation and inspiring a sense of responsibility towards nature. Through its work, this esteemed organization fosters a deeper connection between people and animals, strengthens family bonds, and encourages the care and wellbeing of both local and global wildlife populations.
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Impact
October, 2024
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc. significantly enhances the community by fostering connections between children, families, and animals. Through its management of the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, the organization not only provides a space for recreation and education but also emphasizes the importance of conservation.
By integrating conservation messages across various programs, from educational initiatives to keeper chats, the zoo plays a critical role in raising awareness about the conservation of over 90 rare and endangered animal species. Participation in programs managed by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums underscores a commitment to species survival and ecosystem health.
Their impact is evidenced by a growing membership base, with nearly 17,000 local households engaging in the zoo's activities, and a notable increase in member renewals. Special events, like "Dino Days" and "Wild Zoo Halloween," have drawn substantial attendance, demonstrating the zoo's ability to create memorable experiences for families. These events, along with record numbers of private gatherings and corporate events, contribute to the overall vibrancy of the zoo, strengthening community ties and boosting local economic activity.
Ultimately, the Society's mission to connect kids and animals, strengthen families, and inspire care for wildlife resonates throughout Fort Wayne, making the zoo a valuable educational and recreational resource for the community.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Fort Wayne Zoological Society Inc. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.
Financials
This financial information is from Propublica.
Other financial information:
This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.
- Investment Income: $823,474
- Program Service Revenue: $8,390,892
- Gross Receipts: $22,260,245
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $39,339,495
- Total Liabilities: $2,314,768
- Net Assets: $37,024,727
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
ADMISSIONS
Revenue
$3,986,066
MEMBERSHIP DUES
Revenue
$2,218,346
RIDES AND CONCESSIONS
Revenue
$1,729,464
EDUCATION
Revenue
$233,306
ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Revenue
$29,381
Organization Details
Founding Year
1966
Phone
(260) 427-6800Principal Officer
Chris Gomez
Main Address
3411 SHERMAN BLVD, FORT WAYNE, IN, 46808
Website
www.kidszoo.orgNTEE Category
Code: D115 - Animals
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