Community Corner
Give Something 'Zoonique' This Holiday Season
The Detroit Zoo) offers many gift ideas that allow the giver to give twice.
When the shopping mall becomes a zoo this holiday season, shoppers can make the Zoo their mall. The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) offers many gift ideas that allow the giver to give twice – recipients will love their “zoonique” gifts and the proceeds from sales will help support the animals at the Detroit Zoo.
Membership has its privileges. A Detroit Zoo membership provides a year’s supply of “Vitamin Z” with free admission to the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo, free parking, discounts at Zoo gift shops and many other benefits. Prices range from $53 to $160. Residents of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties receive $10 off all categories and can purchase up to four gift memberships at the discounted rate.
Opt to adopt. An A.D.O.P.T.S. (Animals Depend on People to Survive) gift package includes a plush animal, photo, fact sheet, personalized adoption certificate and greeting card. Prices range from $40 to $1,000. Or, visit Zoofari Market on your next trip to the Zoo, purchase a plush, make a donation of $15, and receive a certificate of adoption. The gift of A.D.O.P.T.S. helps to improve the Zoo animals’ habitats and provides veterinary treatment.
Pay tribute. Make a lasting impression at the Zoo with a brick tribute paver engraved with a loved one’s name or special message (cost is $100 to $1,000). A brass-finished laser-etched butterfly can be purchased to commemorate a birthday, wedding, anniversary or the life of a family member, friend or beloved pet (cost is $500). Or, make a donation of any amount in someone’s honor or memory.
Close encounters. Zoo Experiences such as Breakfast with the Butterflies ($300 per group of five), Breakfast with the Giraffes ($500 per group of five) and Mingle with the Macaronis ($600 per group of five) allow visitors to get up close and personal with these Zoo residents. A Guided ZooTour ($100 per person) offers the opportunity to tour the Zoo with a knowledgeable docent on a zero-emission golf cart and visit the animals before the Zoo opens.
Preserve the rainforest one child at a time. A contribution to the Adopt-A-School program in lieu of exchanging gifts supports the mission of the DZS and provides school supplies to the rural schools and children in the Amazon. Sponsor a child for $25 for a year's supply of school materials or adopt an entire Peruvian school for $350.
Can’t decide? Gift certificates are also available. To purchase a gift certificate, order holiday gifts or donate to the Adopt-A-School program, call (248) 336-5836. To give a gift membership, call (248) 541-5717 and press 3.