It's Time

Shedd Aquarium is a celebrated Chicago institution.  Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of field trips to Shedd where my eyes were opened to a world beyond the shores of Lake Michigan.  That curiosity instilled in me a spirit of exploration and respect for the aquatic animal world.  Its time to support Shedd so it can continue inspiring the children of Chicago.

While the Aquarium remains closed due to the pandemic in the interest of public health, the critical animal care functions of the Aquarium continue.  As you will have seen, one of Shedd’s now famous Rockhopper penguins, Wellington, has been hopping about the empty Aquarium with visits by Gov Pritzker and Mayor Lightfoot.  In addition to the animal care functions, the digital and e-Learning resources created by Shedd’s Learning Team are available while students across Illinois have transitioned to “Learn from Home” helping parents as they pull double duty as home educators.

The Auxiliary Board of Shedd is sad that its headline fundraiser, BLU, will not go on this year.  However, in the spirit of BLU, the Auxiliary Board is Proud to support the reopening campaign and is also launching a series of virtual events to highlight our favorite aspects of Shedd - whether its freshwater researchers, conservation specialists, Shedd’s Marine Mammal kitchen and more!  These virtual events will also bring in community components - small businesses who have also been impacted by the pandemic.  

Donations to this campaign of at least $50 before 5/28 will get you an invitation to Shedd’s 90th birthday virtual celebration on 5/29.  Many of the animals you will have seen on Shedd’s virtual channels throughout the pandemic will be featured!

Additionally, two generous members of Shedd’s Board of Trustees are also encouraging the Auxiliary Board and you - our community, alumni, family, friends, and colleagues - to raise $225,000 by June 30. Reaching this goal will unlock an additional $150,000 towards our fundraising efforts.

Thank you for your consideration of support for Shedd,

Jeff

Chairman, Auxiliary Board