About ZSM
The Zoological Society is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization with 50 full-time and 40 part-time seasonal interns and employees who manage daily operations and programs. Helping the Milwaukee County Zoo maintain its reputation as Wisconsin’s premier educational and cultural treasure is a big part of the Zoological Society’s mission. Together, the Zoo and Society serve nearly 1.3 million guests a year.
Joint Strategic and Master Plan: From Wisconsin to partnerships around the world we will ensure wildlife and wild places thrive—because that’s what this moment demands. This is a bold new vision that unites the Milwaukee County Zoo and Zoological Society as one coalition. Discover how we’re aligning to create Our Zoo, Our Future.
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee is to conserve wildlife and endangered species, educate people about the importance of wildlife and the environment, and upport the Milwaukee County Zoo.
Our Role in Conservation
In the last quarter-century, the Zoological Society has made lasting contributions to conservation around the world and at the Zoo. Several animals that are in immediate danger of extinction have a better chance for survival thanks to the work and funding of the Society. The Society provides annual funds to the Milwaukee County Zoo to help support conservation and research projects, some of which involve Zoo staff. These projects have helped animals around the world, including orangutans, Humboldt penguins, giraffes and Grand Cayman blue iguanas.
Our Educational Opportunities
The Zoological Society of Milwaukee produces and delivers educational programming that supports the Zoo’s mission and the accreditation they receive from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Throughout the year, the Zoological Society brings exceptional animal, environmental and science-based educational opportunities to children, adults and families. The programs help people of all ages develop an understanding of wildlife and some of the environmental challenges the earth faces. Offerings include Zoo Classes and Camps, school programs, community outreach and Kohl’s Wild Theater. Overall, these programs reach nearly 250,000 individuals annually.
Our Support of the Milwaukee County Zoo
The Zoological Society offers financial and in-kind support to the Milwaukee County Zoo. The organization raises millions of dollars each year that goes directly to the Zoo in unrestricted funds.
In addition to the annual financial support, the Society has invested millions in capital improvements within the Zoo. The Society’s support, through three capital campaigns, combined with matching dollars from Milwaukee County, has helped build animal homes that resemble natural habitats including the most recent campaign, Window to the Wild – Adventure Africa.