Donate Now to the Chicago Zoological Society
The Bison Circle recognizes those generous donors who are committed to the Chicago Zoological Society's mission—to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people with wildlife and nature—and are able to support the Society through significant gifts of $1,500 or more.

Bison Circle members truly make an impact. Through their contribution, we are able to reach so many audiences each year, including:
  • Two million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs
  • Some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs
  • Nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops
  • Diverse communities across Chicagoland.
We inspire conservation action by leading by example, and Bison Circle donors are an integral part of our conservation programs. The Society is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world’s longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins.

We have also pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature—an endeavor that would be much more difficult without Bison Circle members.

Bison Circle donors care…and contribute to care. Thanks to their donations, thousands of animals representing 400 species receive state-of-the-art care through top-notch medical, husbandry, and nutrition programs. In fact, animal care technologies developed at Brookfield Zoo are employed in 165 countries.

Discover the Bison Circle giving levels and associated privileges, or call (708) 688-8667 for more information.


Bison Circle Friend $1,500 - 2,499

  • Free Brookfield Zoo admission and parking
  • Free admission to Dolphin Shows, Children's Zoo, Hamill Family Play Zoo, and Motor Safari tram tours
  • Special discounts on merchandise in gift shops and the bookstore
  • 10% discount on food at zoo restaurants
  • Complimentary tickets to zoo lectures
  • Ten optional guest passes to share with friends
  • Invitations to special events for Bison Circle donors
  • Listing in the Annual Report and at Discovery Center
  • Invitations to the Annual Meeting and exhibit previews

Bison Circle Partners $2,500 - 4,999

  • Benefits of Bison Circle Friends
  • Construction tours of new exhibits
  • Opportunities for other special evenings hosted by the zoo director

Bison Circle Fellows $5,000 - 9,999

  • Benefits of Bison Circle Partners
  • Opportunities for guided tours for you and your guests

Bison Circle Honored Fellows $10,000 - 24,999

  • Benefits of Bison Circle Fellows
  • Opportunities for behind-the-scenes tours of Brookfield Zoo

Bison Circle Benefactors $25,000 or more

  • Benefits of Honored Fellows
  • Opportunity for one-on-one meetings with the zoo director.

Don’t forget your employer’s matching gift program—make your support go even further!

Please note: Under IRS guidelines, the amount of your contribution that is deductible for federal income tax purposes is limited to the excess of your payment over the value of the goods or services provided by the Chicago Zoological Society. 

  • For 2011 contribution, the estimated fair market value of goods or services received in return for this contribution is $137.87.
  • For 2012 contribution, the estimated fair market value of goods or services received in return for this contribution is $130.46.

If you would prefer to send in a donation by mail please send to:
Chicago Zoological Society
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road
Brookfield, IL 60513

If you would prefer to talk to someone about making a donation please call:
708-688-8667

If you have questions about Membership please call: 708-688-8341