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college and careers, and helps them to Opening Doors and
make a difference in their communities. Providing Opportunties

Sandra provides mentorship to partici- The Chicago Zoological Society strives to reach the youngest learners...
pating young adults, organizes and super-
vises programs, and collaborates with 158 children in Nature Play ZAP!
other zoo staff and community organiza- (Ages 1-5)
tions like Eden Place in Chicago’s Fuller 2,959 children and
Park neighborhood, the Chicago Urban families in ZAP!
League, and neighborhood libraries. (Ages 5-12)
177 middle
Recalling her own adolescent school students
experience, and growing up in a culture
that didn’t always embrace nature and in Zoo Explorers Club
science, she encourages young people to
“let their science geek flag fly!” She urges 742 children 1,365
them to “find adults with the same
interests that you have. Seek out that one and adults in children in
science teacher or librarian who can Family Play
provide you with resources, direction, and Programs Zoo Camp
support.” She thinks back to her own
experience—her high school math teacher ...along with those who are a little
recognized her love of animals, and further along in their education...
encouraged her to apply to the Society’s
youth volunteer program. 1,959 17 veterinary students
271individuals 4 in clinical rotation
Sandra feels fortunate that each day, who participated teachers who
she witnesses real change happening in in some kind Ph.D. students in our
real life because of the Society’s programs. of professional participated
“Like I was, the kids I work with are development in graduate Sarasota Dolphin
transformed by their participation. They program courses
go on to conduct fieldwork in Africa, 26 Research Program
pursue careers in the sciences, and develop
conservation programs in their own Master’s degree graduates
communities.”
...and persons with disabilities. 190 persons with disabilities
She adds, “If people understand nature
and the world around them, they can ca s received an animal ambassador
grow in so many ways. King Conservation g mper visit
Science Scholars, Zoo Adventure Passport uests
(ZAP!), and other informal education 4,475 persons with disabilities
initiatives are planting the curiosity seed 20% 7%
and nurturing it with water and sunshine. (plus family/staff) were served
We are helping young people to envision a of zoo of zoo through zoo visits
previously unimaginable future for guests campers
themselves and then providing them with 14,833 persons with disabilities
tools to reach their goals.” may have a physical,
cognitive, or sensory (plus family/staff) were served
This summer, Sandra is slated to through free passes
complete a Bachelor of Science degree in disability.
biology with a concentration in education The "A Zoo for All" initiative includes:
from Northeastern Illinois University. Our “A Zoo for All”
She plans to continue providing informal initiative expanded in ✔ Programs that train individuals
science education to youth in Chicago- 2017 in an effort to with disabilities for employment and
area communities. █ meet all of their needs. volunteer opportunities, like Good
Works and Project SEARCH.

✔ Inclusive programing, like Zoo
Camp and Family Fun Saturdays.

✔ The addition of a new sensory-
friendly family room and
inclustion resource center in
Hamill Family Play Zoo.

BROOKFIELD ZOO | SUMMER 2018 35