It’s a difficult time for so many people, families and businesses. As many of you know, Pine Grove Zoo, like so many other institutions in American is closed to the public based on recommendations from the World Health Organization, the CDC and federal and state guidelines. Be assured that we will be monitoring the evolving situation and will reevaluate this decision on a regular basis and reopen when appropriate.
This new “normal” is different for each as “social distancing” and “flattening the curve” have become new phrases we are all too familiar with. It’s during these tough times, that heroes are more noticed, more appreciated.
For some of you, you are becoming teachers for your kids while still trying to be a good employee by working from home…you are your children’s hero and your employer’s hero. Others are no longer blessed with a job to go to, as your place of business has been closed or your hours have been dramatically reduced. You are a hero, for standing tall, finding the positives and appreciating those around you as you face a financial hardship.
Then there are those of you that are in the heart of this crisis by being heroes in so many ways. Whether it’s the friendly clerk checking us out at the local store, the worker at the drive-through restaurant, the truckers driving long hours to get product to its destination, the police or fire personnel ready to help at a moment’s notice or those amazing people that work in our healthcare system from doctors and nurses to the cleaning staff.
At Pine Grove Zoo, we have heroes too. Our heroes, our Zoo Keepers, come in every day to provide care, enrichment and love for our zoo animal family. Our employees, effort, drive, commitment and love for their job is inspired by our hero, our Director who is not afraid to dig in where needed not only during this difficult time – but anytime she notices there is the slightest need. All while still ensuring our animals and employees are taken care. Yes, she’s our hero.
And yes, our heroes are YOU! Everyone who supported our Zoo Gone Wild this past February is our hero. Every business who sponsored or donated to us in the past is our hero. Every one of you who have still, despite these crazy times, renewed your membership with us or became new members. You are a hero to us. Your memberships help to care for each of our animals. And for that, we thank you!
Some of you (our heroes) have been asking for ways to support us. As a non-profit, we appreciate your donation as this helps us during this time in so many ways. You can always call or email us with questions on how to donate.
Take a minute and look around you. Whether you are at home or at work. Take the time to appreciate your everyday heroes. Don’t forget that you are someone’s hero too. So wear that cape proudly friends and be proud of the hero you are and the hero you’ve become and thank you for being our hero!
We look forward to welcoming you back to the Zoo soon.
