FORT WAYNE, Ind. — “Pick it up. Pitch it in. Protect Wildlife” that’s the slogan for Fort Wayne Zoo’s new “Pick it up for Penny” Conservation Campaign. After a plastic cup blew into the African Veldt and led to a partial amputation performed on Penny the ostrich’s right wing, the Fort Wayne Zoo is announcing a “Pick It Up for Penny” campaign to encourage the community to pick up trash to support local wildlife.
As part of the campaign, the Zoo will have:
- A mailbox in African Journey, next to the entrance of the Zebra Research Station, for guests to drop off letters of support to Penny and her care team. Attached to the email are photos.
- T-shirts coming soon that have the slogan “Pick It Up for Penny”, with proceeds supporting these local conservation and clean up efforts. T-shirt design and purchase links will be available soon at fwzoo.com.
- A pledge for guests, staff, and community partners to commit to picking up trash and helping protect wildlife.
- The Zoo will be hosting community clean-up and recycling initiatives to encourage everyone to keep recyclable plastic out of landfills.
- Our Teens for Nature Volunteers are leading a Community Action Day on Sept. 27 to pick up trash on bike & park trails in Franke Park. Community members of all ages can sign up during one of our Wild Weekends or online.
“Small actions can make a big impact, which is why we are encouraging everyone in the community to “Pick it Up for Penny”! Pick it up, pitch it in, protect wildlife: everyone can support by picking up trash.” Says Rick Schuiteman, Zoo Executive Director & CEO. “We have an incredibly talented team here at the Zoo who excel at providing exceptional care, but unfortunately, not all of our local wildlife has that resource, so we have to bring care to them. We can take care of their environment and ensure that our trash isn’t keeping wildlife from thriving.”
