While the Los Angeles Zoo is famous for its menagerie of animals for tourists and locals alike to marvel at, behind the scenes, the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) tirelessly works for both the preservation and conservation of some of the world’s most rare and vulnerable species.
In order to continue their mission, the zoo holds their annual Beastly Ball to raise funds and further awareness of their cause. This 49th annual celebration takes place on May 18 and promises to be a night of entertainment, education and naturally, some animal encounters!
With the global climate constantly changing, habitats are disappearing at an alarming rate and it is the zoo’s goal to take a lead role in safeguarding wildlife while ensuring that people are properly educated on why this issue is not only crucial for the animals themselves, but the planet as a whole.
Coinciding with Endangered Species Day that falls on the day prior to the ball, the Los Angeles Zoo will highlight the efforts they embark on to protect certain species that are on the brink such as the California condor, mountain yellow-legged frogs and peninsular pronghorn.
While the subject matter is serious, the celebration of their mission is guaranteed to be a night of fun for all those who are able to attend the Beastly Ball!
With a list of iconic restaurants (Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs, Smokehouse, etc) cooking up an array of delicacies to a variety of beverage partners (Taste It Wines, Paquera Mezcal), celebrity emcees, entertainment and music to dance under the stars to, every penny will be well spent to support this non-profit.
Plus, what would a zoo ball be without up close personal animal encounters with some of their most popular animal ambassadors after regular zoo hours?!
Besides the money raised from ticket sales, there will be a live and silent auction to participate in, with everything from luxurious travel to one-of-a-kind experiences such as a personal dinner with “This is Us” star and honorary GLAZA committee member, Chris Sullivan. Those who are unable to attend can still partake in their online auction or simply contribute donations of any denomination. Businesses can even sponsor, underwrite or advertise within the ball.
GLAZA will also be honoring Dr. Sylvia Earle, a marine biologist, explorer, author and lecturer who has dedicated her life to protecting the ocean and its inhabitants.
Additionally, the first-ever Conservation Hero Award will be given to Glen Curado, founder and CEO of the World Harvest Charities and Family Services, an area non-profit that provides food, basic staples and living essentials to over 48,000 families and seniors in 58 counties within the state of California. This newly created award is bestowed on an individual, program, or project that exemplifies the zoo’s mission to save animals from extinction and conserve the planet.
GLAZA’s Beastly Ball has raised millions over the years to support the Los Angeles Zoo’s local and global conservation and education initiatives with no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
The zoo is a Los Angeles institution that is not only a staple of the community but a crucial player in protecting the animals that call this planet home. Join them for a night of food, fun and fundraising and play your part in protecting the animals that make the zoo such an exciting and educational place for people of all ages to enjoy!
To learn more about the Beastly Ball and how to purchase tickets to this event or the various ways to contribute a donation, please visit https://beastlyball.lazoo.org.
