Central Coast Zoo Foundation launches new giving program honoring Barbie Butz
Barbie Butz was a founder and original visionary of the Atascadero Lakeside WineFest, which supports the Central Coast Zoo.
– The Central Coast Zoo Foundation has launched the Barbie Butz Wildlife Circle, an annual giving program supporting the Central Coast Zoo‘s conservation, education, and community programs.
The giving program is named for Barbie Butz, a community leader and advocate who has been involved in the Atascadero and San Luis Obispo County communities for decades.
Butz was a founder and original visionary of the Atascadero Lakeside WineFest, which supports the Central Coast Zoo. She also served 22 years on the city’s Parks and Recreation Commission. Her service includes board leadership with the Atascadero Chamber, the Atascadero Youth Task Force, the Printery Foundation, and the Colony Days Committee, as well as countywide advocacy for organizations including CASA and the Assistance League of SLO County.
The foundation said Butz’s commitment to family-centered spaces and improving the region’s quality of life inspired the giving program. Members of the Wildlife Circle will support the zoo’s conservation and educational efforts.
“The Barbie Butz Wildlife Circle brings together a dedicated group of supporters who share a passion for preserving our treasured local zoo,” said Dr. Cynthia Stringfield, Zoo Director of the Central Coast Zoo. “By becoming a founding member, you are directly investing in the future of the zoo, from vital habitat enhancements to expanded educational programming that connects families with wildlife.”
Annual membership costs $1,000. Gifts made through Dec. 1 will be matched dollar for dollar, according to the foundation. The matching funds will support zoo projects, including habitat renovations.
Members will receive recognition and other benefits.
People can learn more or become founding members through the Central Coast Zoo Foundation’s online donation page, by writing a check to Central Coast Zoo Foundation and mailing it to 9305 Pismo Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422, or by contacting the foundation at CCZooFoundation@gmail.com.
The Central Coast Zoo is home to more than 200 animals representing more than 60 species from around the world. It is the only zoo in San Luis Obispo County accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Through membership in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the zoo participates in globally managed conservation programs focused on protecting species and their natural habitats. The zoo’s mission is to engage community members and visitors and inspire conservation and wildlife preservation.
The Central Coast Zoo Foundation supports the Central Coast Zoo through community partnerships and philanthropic support. The foundation works to provide habitats for animals and educational resources for the community and support wildlife conservation.
The Central Coast Zoo Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its EIN is 45-5250037. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and all proceeds benefit the Central Coast Zoo.
