PZS
Peoria Zoological Society

Peoria Zoological Society (PZS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and realizing the vision for Peoria Zoo. Its mission is to support the growth of Peoria Zoo.

Peoria Zoological Society was formed in 1997 to lead the effort for the new Zoo. In 2002, the Peoria Park District and Peoria Zoological Society signed an agreement regarding the expansion of the Zoo and fundraising efforts began. Over the next several years, under the leadership of Campaign Co-Chairs, Polly Barton and Carlotta Bielfedlt, over $27 million dollars were raised and Africa! opened in 2009!

To accommodate the increase in attendance, there was a need to raise additional funds for a new entry complex, and in 2011 the Peoria Zoological Society joined forces with the Peoria Park District and the Junior League of Peoria in the Power of Play Campaign to continue the expansion of Peoria Zoo and create the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum. In July 2012, the new entry, The Barton Pavilion at Glen Oak Park opened, followed by Rotary Adventure Grove in October 2014 and The Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum in June 2015.

Peoria Zoological Society recently finished a revision to the Master Plan and continues to plan for the next fundraising endeavor to enhance Peoria Zoo! In the meantime, we invite you to support our Mission Fund or one of our programs or events.

The Society oversees Peoria Zoo’s membership and Adopt-An-Animal program in addition to three annual fundraising efforts: Zootini,Zoo La la and Zoobrew, Wine and Spirits Too! 

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Annual Fundraising Events

Zootini

A variety of martinis are served by local bartenders at an after-hours event in Africa! Walk the boardwalk with friends while listening to live music at this wonderful springtime evening event. Guests will also enjoy a selection of local appetizers and dessert! This popular event has sold out and draws over 600 people. For sponsorship or more information, please e-mail us at [email protected].

ZooBrew, Wine & Spirits Too!

Sample a variety of beer and wine selected by our local vendors as your explore Africa! after hours at Peoria Zoo during a beautiful fall evening. This event includes live music, appetizers, dessert and an exclusive VIP experience. This popular event sells out to a crowd of 250 people.

UpROARious

Join us for our annual online auction to support YOUR Peoria Zoo! This multi-day auction is loaded with items of all interests and price points. We also gladly accept auction donations, and any item large or small is appreciated. Call (309) 681-3500 or [email protected] to donate today!

PZS Board Members

President: David Bielfeldt
Vice President: Roger Holzgrafe
Treasurer: Stan Butler
Secretary: Dawn Koeltzow

Board Members: Polly Barton, Emily Cahill, Laurie Covington, Collen DiGiallonardo, Douglas Gillespie, Robert Johnson, Bob Lizer, Lucinda McArthur, Tom Menger, Rhonda Milburn, Thomas Schlink, and Darlene Violet 

PZS Staff:
Development Director: Brenda O’Russa
Development/Membership Assistant: Mindy Spahn

Questions?

For any questions concerning PZS, please use our contact form or call at (309) 681-3500.

PEORIA PARK DISTRICT

Peoria Zoo is owned and operated by Peoria Park District. To learn more about The District, click below! 

Peoria Zoo