Lehigh Valley Zoo’s core purpose – to save species from extinction and engage people – inspires our work, our conservation education programs, and our leadership in wildlife conservation.  The annual Conservation Gala helps to support this purpose by providing the necessary funding for programs in and around the zoo to better our local environment, as well as support global wildlife rehabilitation and revitalization. Specifically, this year’s gala funds will be used to update our main entrance.  As it stands, the entrance is not ADA accessible and is difficult for those in wheelchairs to navigate.  Not only will the new entrance address accessibility issues, it is a required update in order to pass our accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).  The AZA is an organization that sets the standards for animal care.  Our accreditation sets us apart and puts us in the top 10% of zoos in the nation; we have been accredited since 2006.  AZA accreditation is a priority of ours - it shows that we are providing the best care for our resident animals.  It also provides a reciprocity program to our 5,000 member households - they are able to visit other AZA accredited zoos for free or at a discount.  The reciprocity program is invaluable to us because it provides our members with access to animals not available at Lehigh Valley Zoo, thus strengthening our ability to provide education and conservation messaging.