Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium Exceeds Fundraising Goal For New Aquarium And Butterfly Rain Forest
The Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium has made headlines with its recent fundraising milestone, surpassing its goal for the exciting new aquarium and butterfly rain forest project. The five-month "We Can’t Wait" campaign garnered an impressive $2.35 million, significantly exceeding the initial target of $1.3 million, as well as the stretch goal of $2 million. This achievement highlights an overwhelming support from the local community, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in enhancing local attractions.
Audrey Otto-Pepper, the chief operating officer of the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium, expressed her gratitude, stating, "We are blown away by the positive response – and we couldn’t be more grateful for the generosity of our local business community." She highlighted the pivotal role of community engagement, revealing that many businesses are enthusiastic about contributing to a project that will serve families and visitors for generations.
The "We Can’t Wait" campaign is part of a broader $50 million fundraising strategy supporting the zoo’s master plan. This plan includes vital renovations to the main building, aiming to establish an education center, a butterfly garden, and even a new habitat for the beloved Humboldt penguin colony. The project seeks to create a multifunctional space that not only serves wildlife but also enriches the educational experiences of visitors.
Looking ahead, the zoo continues its fundraising efforts this year, setting its sights on matching a generous $25 million donation from philanthropist Denny Sanford. Otto-Pepper noted, "We know this is such a great benefit for businesses – for their employees. This is good for my business because it’s something for staff and clients to enjoy." This sentiment embodies the collective excitement regarding the zoo’s future, portraying it as a vital community hub that connects people and nature.
With the detailed design phase already underway and set for completion later this year, the anticipation surrounding this project is palpable. Construction manager Hausmann Construction, known for their work at the children’s zoo in Lincoln, Nebraska, will spearhead the project, which is slated for a grand opening in late 2028. The dreams of a modern, engaging zoo experience are becoming a reality for Sioux Falls.
In summary, the Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium’s latest fundraising success not only underscores community support but also promises a brighter future for local wildlife conservation and education. What do you think about such initiatives? Do they inspire you to support local projects that enhance our understanding of nature? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments!
