Impact and Programs
Accomplishments
Como Friends contributed $1,684,372 to Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Contributions supported capital improvements, best practices in animal care, the production of beautiful gardens, expanded education programs to reach broad audiences, and free admission for every visitor every day of the year.
Current Goals
Como Friends is advancing work on our strategic plan with a focus on being innovative in our fundraising strategy and retail operations to grow support for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Towards this effort, we have introduced a new family-friendly event to the community, expanded our retail operation with a new location, and updated our communications messaging to reinforce the multi-generational experiences at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.
Community or Constituency Served
Como Friends' work benefits Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. The zoo and conservatory host a diverse audience of 1.1 million annual people. Como’s free admission and budget-friendly school programs provide equitable access for people from all walks of life, ensuring that admission is no obstacle to a visit to the zoo and conservatory.
Geographic Area Served
Como serves the entire state of Minnesota and surrounding region. An estimated 18 percent are from the City of St. Paul, 14 percent are from Minneapolis, 32 percent are from the surrounding seven-county metro area, 20 percent are from Greater Minnesota, and 15 percent are from outside the state, and 1 percent are international visitors
