Marlin Perkins Society
In 1991, the Marlin Perkins Society was established in honor of renowned zoologist and former Director of the Saint Louis Zoo as a way to pay tribute to his remarkable legacy and ensure that his vision of connection and conservation continues to thrive.
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How Does a Free Zoo Stay Open 363 Days a Year?
It’s simple: we have an incredibly generous community that supports the Zoo with contributions and tax support.
The Saint Louis Zoo operates at no cost to visitors, yet it takes $151,000 every day to provide world-class animal care, local and global conservation efforts, and educational experiences. This is only possible because of generous donors—including Marlin Perkins Society members—who believe in protecting wildlife and inspiring future generations.
At its heart, the Zoo’s success is driven by people who believe in conservation and the power of education, ensuring that millions can enjoy and learn from this world-class institution every year.
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Corporate Program
Your Impact: A World of Difference
Few contributions have the power to transform lives — human and animal — like those made through the Marlin Perkins Society. Imagine the awe of a child seeing a polar bear up close for the first time, a moment that sparks empathy, curiosity and a lifelong connection to nature. Your support makes these moments possible, creating experiences that no book or video could ever replicate. Together, we inspire future generations to care deeply for wildlife and protect our planet’s most extraordinary creatures.
Your generosity doesn’t stop at our Zoo gates — it reaches across the globe, safeguarding species and habitats, and ensuring a brighter future for all living beings. Since 1991, Society donors have contributed more than $40 million in support, enabling conservation breakthroughs and life-changing education initiatives.
A Legacy of Compassion and Conservation
Members of the Marlin Perkins Society are more than supporters — they are the heart of the Saint Louis Zoo family. By partnering with the Zoo, these visionary donors empower us to fulfill our unwavering promise of Animals Always. Beyond their generous financial contributions, Society members champion impactful conservation efforts and advocate for the irreplaceable role zoos play in fostering empathy; providing education; and inspiring future scientists, conservationists and philanthropists. Simply put, the Saint Louis Zoo would not be the global leader it is today — free to all and celebrated for its animal care, groundbreaking research and unforgettable guest experiences — without the generosity of our Marlin Perkins Society donors.