Our Mission
The Valley Zoo Development Society’s (VZDS) mission is to raise funds and promote awareness to ensure the continued development of the Edmonton Valley Zoo, and its education and conservation programs. This is achieved through the events and various programs that the VZDS runs throughout the year. Currently, there are three fundraising events that the VZDS organizes including Zoobrew and Zoominescence. Programs that the Valley Zoo Development Society runs include the Adopt an Animal Program. Adopt An Exhibit, Pay It Forward for the Planet, and Zoobuilders.
Each year the Valley Zoo Development Society donates thousands to the Edmonton Valley Zoo for development and continual improvement. Past projects that the VZDS has contributed to include the elephant house, the red panda exhibit, the lemur habitat, upgrades to the Zoo Veterinary Clinic, and upgrades to the big horned sheep exhibit. The VZDS also donates money to various charities including the International Elephant Foundation and Snow Leopard Trust. Recently the VZDS has committed to raising over $9 million dollars to fund the Natures Wild Back Yard portion of the Valley Zoo Revitalization project.
Our History
The Valley Zoo Development Society (VZDS) is a registered charity and not-for-profit that was started in 1988.The VZDS acts in partnership with the City of Edmonton to ensure the continued development of the beloved Edmonton Valley Zoo. Owned and operated by the City of Edmonton, the Valley Zoo is currently home to over 350 animals and more than 100 species. The Valley Zoo has grown significantly since it opened in 1959, as The Storyland Valley Zoo, in its current location in Laurier Park. Once a 5-acre petting zoo, the Valley Zoo is now an educational facility, which contributes to the conservation of global biodiversity.
Charitable Registration Number: 88639 7595 RR0001