Welcome to Caldwell Zoo Donor Circles
The Donor Circles were created to build upon a magnificent legacy to do more–more for wildlife and for our community.
By becoming a member, you play an active role in saving wildlife, locally and around the globe, and you directly benefit our community.
Eagle's Flight
$10,000+
Eagle’s Flight level donors will be named on the Founding Members permanent display, receive a Family Membership and 10 guest passes per visit
Elephant Parade
$5,000+
Elephant Parade level donors will be named on the Founding Members permanent display, receive a Family Membership and 6 guest passes per visit
Lion Pride
$2,500+
Lion Pride level donors will be named on the Founding Members permanent display, receive a Family Membership and 4 guest passes per visit
Crowned Cranes
$1,000+
Crowned Crane level donors will be named on the Founding Members permanent display, receive a Family Membership and 2 guest passes per visit
Don’t wait. Founding Membership closes June 30, 2025.
The Caldwell Zoo Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax deductible
Our Legacy
We’re built on a tradition of giving. Over 70 years ago, Lottie and D.K. Caldwell created a foundation to provide opportunities for the community of Tyler. They believed in the importance of wildlife and the power of a good education. In 1953, Caldwell Zoo and Playschool officially opened with the goals of connecting people with the wonders of the natural world and making learning impactful and fun.
Our Commitment
It takes a lot to be a great zoo.
Everything we do, every day, is to provide the absolute best care for the animals that live here, while delivering great experiences for our guests who come to learn and explore. Over the years, zoos have evolved from simply giving people the chance to see amazing animals, to being the global leaders in wildlife conservation.
ATTRIBUTES OF A GREAT ZOO:
- Custom-built habitats to provide security and comfort for every animal
- Thousands of nutritional meals are prepared daily
- Full-service veterinary hospital
- Specialized training programs in animal husbandry and engagement
- Longstanding accredited member of The Association of Zoos and Aquariums
We do a lot more than simply be a great zoo.
Caldwell Zoo is so much more than a safe haven for animals. Tyler is our home and we strive to be a valuable asset to the families of East Texas. That’s why we provide a wide variety of programs for students of all ages. By offering meaningful education programs, we boost our community and empower it to thrive for generations to come.
DOING MORE:
- Lead and contribute to animal conservation
- Over 3,000 animals in residence
- Home to more than 30 threatened or endangered species
- Leader in African Cheetah breeding
- Contributor for over 20 years to Atwatter’s Prairie Chicken breeding
- Forerunner in Texas Horned Lizard Conservation
- Experts in Reticulated Giraffe breeding
- Successful hatching of critically endangered Waldrapp ibis
- Excellence in Education
- Summer Camp activities for over 400 students
- Zoo Crew Volunteer program for high school students
- Zoo School classes for education beyond the classroom
- Exciting Animal Encounters that create connections
- College-level credits in biology
- Community Resource
- Employer of over 100 staff members
- Generate over $17M in positive community impact annually
- Host of the ever-popular Boo at the Zoo
- Resource for the best birthday parties ever
- Beautiful locations for private events
Our Future
Amazon River’s Edge Paves the Way
With the opening of our all-new Amazon River’s Edge, we showcase the high standards of the Zoo and the wonderful addition it is to our community. This beautiful area spans over 7 acres with expansive habitats of some of the world’s most dynamic and threatened animals. The entire area was built to connect people with animals that they may never see in the wild so that we can all ensure their survival. Amazon River’s Edge is a place to explore and gather together. River’s Edge Center is Tyler’s most unique meeting place that is sure to inspire camaraderie and positive action. The Exploration Station, located in the heart of our Amazonian region, is the outpost for youthful adventure and boosting curious minds. Amazon River’s Edge represents what a zoo should be. It’s beautiful, inclusive, fascinating and fun.
Thanks to the generosity of Lottie and D.K., we have been able to get to this point.
Join Us
WE CAN’T DO IT ALONE.
With your help, we can do more. For now and for the future.
So, join us in saving wildlife, making learning fun and creating cherished memories.
Founding Members will be honored with their name(s) listed on a permanent installation within the new Amazon River’s Edge region, along with other perks mentioned above, based on donor level.
Don’t wait. Founding Membership closes June 30, 2025.
Caldwell Zoo Donor Circles Founding Membership is open to families and individuals.
For information regarding corporate sponsorships, please contact Susy Smith: email: ssmith@caldwellzoo.org or phone: 903-592-8191 extension 268.
Caldwell Zoo Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax deductible.
All donations are helpful. If you’re unable to join the Donor Circles at this time and you still want to contribute, click here.
