FOTAZ: Friends of the Alexandria Zoo

MISSION STATEMENT
"Friends of the Alexandria Zoo is a non-profit organization dedicated to the continuing improvement of the Alexandria Zoological Park, humane, aesthetically tasteful and education exhibits; addition of new animals to encourage conservation of valuable wildlife; and promotion of cultural and educational services for the community and its schools and to encourage economic development."

FOTAZ'S ROLE IN THE ZOO
Friends of the Alexandria Zoo, formed in 1971 by a group of concerned citizens, is a support organization for the zoo. FOTAZ evolved from a Zoo committee appointed by City Commissioner O'Hearn Mathews in 1970 when the USDA threatened the Zoo with closure.

FOTAZ serves as a support organization dedicated to the betterment of the Zoo for improvements, purchases, and continuing education of Zoo staff, the FOTAZ Board, and the public. Through membership sales and fund-raising events, FOTAZ provides supplemental revenue for the zoo's ongoing projects involving animals, construction, education and public services.

EVENTS AND PROGRAMS
The following are some events and activities that FOTAZ helps sponsor and support: Zoo Day, Zoo Boo, FOTAZ Family Nite, Wild Side of the Arts, Safari Nite, Jungle Jam, Summer Safari, and other education programs, openings for exhibits, and volunteer workdays.