Diversity, Equity, Access & Inclusion
You. Us. We. All.
Let Us Envision Together
Diversity. Equity. Access. Inclusion.
At the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, we believe diverse people with different perspectives, backgrounds, and values lead to our best conservation outcomes. Our commitment is to cultivate an equitable and welcoming environment to retain talent and strengthen our mission to support the Milwaukee County Zoo. We are growing accessible and inclusive education programming to experience wildlife, conservation, and empathy for animals.
We envision a ZSM that …
Reflects communities we serve. Celebrates our collective diversity. Empowers you to take conservation action.
ACCESSIBILITY PROGRAMS
The Zoological Society of Milwaukee and the Milwaukee County Zoo believe the Zoo should be accessible to all people. Throughout the year there are opportunities for free or discounted admission to the Zoo, special events or educational programs.
Free or Discounted Admission
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Family Free Days
Sponsored by Tri City National Bank & WITI-FOX6
Free admission for all the first Saturday in the months of October-March -
Military & Veterans Family Day
Free admission and parking to active military and veterans and their families -
July 4th Celebration
$4 admission fees for all -
Senior Celebration
Sponsored by St. Camillus Life Plan Community
Free admission for visitors 55 years old and above -
Frosty Free Week
Free admission for all visitors during the last week of December
Educational Accessibility
Field Trips
All Milwaukee County schools receive free admission during the months of November, December, January, February and March. Milwaukee County schools receive reduced rates during April through October.
Kohl’s Wild Theater
Throughout the year, Kohl’s Wild Theater brings live, educational, family-friendly shows to schools, libraries and various community events within 60-miles of the Zoo, completely free of charge.
Financial Aid
The Zoological Society of Milwaukee offers financial aid to qualified households that are one or more of the following: Low income (defined by DHHS as households whose incomes do not exceed 80 percent of the median household income in Milwaukee County), households experiencing unemployment or other hardships, households participating in a government benefits program.
Summer Camps & Community Centers
The Society offers Summer Camps for children attending metro-Milwaukee community centers. We bring science and conservation education to children in a fun and interactive manner at no or deeply discounted rates to the center.
Animal Ambassador
The Zoological Society works with nearly 2,000 children in grades 2-4 in metro-Milwaukee through class lessons and Zoo field trips free of charge thanks to funding provided by corporations and foundations.
PROGRAMS & PARTNERSHIPS
Project SEARCH
Project SEARCH is an innovative, business-led, school-to-work transition program for young adults with disabilities. Goodwill partners with the Zoo along with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Health Services, CESA #1 and local Public Schools to offer unique training rotations for individuals. Program includes:
- Career exploration, training and internship experience
- Experience in community organization and workplace culture
- Development of job skills and independence
- Work-based learning that promotes problem-solving, teamwork and social relationships
KultureCity Certification
The Zoo has partnered with KultureCity to make the Zoo and all the programs and events it hosts sensory-inclusive. The certification enables the Zoo to accommodate guests with sensory processing needs and make it a welcoming and positive experience.
The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is dedicated to creating a diverse work environment.
