Phillips Park Zoo Launched Porcupine Fundraising Effort
The city-operated zoo and a local foundation aim to acquire two African crested porcupines for the facility.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Phillips Park Zoo and the newly established Phillips Park Foundation have partnered to raise funds for the purchase of two African crested porcupines. Officials aim to maintain visitor interest at the Aurora facility by securing the new animals.
Why it matters
The Phillips Park Foundation serves as a nonprofit vehicle, allowing the municipally-operated zoo to secure grants and private donations that supplement city funding. This partnership is designed to establish an annual tradition of fundraising for new zoo exhibits.
The zoo seeks to acquire two African crested porcupines, each estimated to cost between $1,000 and $1,500. These animals will join the attractions within the 400-acre Phillips Park grounds.
The players
Anna Borozenets
She has served as the manager of the Phillips Park Zoo since 2023.
Phillips Park Foundation
This organization was established in April 2026 to support the city-operated zoo through grants and fundraising.
Phillips Park Zoo
This is a municipally-operated facility located within a 400-acre park in Aurora.
The details
The foundation board moved forward with the purchase proposal after it was presented by zoo manager Anna Borozenets. The groups plan to leverage a public Oktoberfest event on Oct. 10 to collect the necessary capital for the acquisition.
Timeline
The Phillips Park Foundation was established in April 2026.
Anna Borozenets began her tenure as zoo manager in 2023.
The zoo will host a fundraising event for the porcupines on October 10, 2026.
Market Landscape
This partnership mirrors the established industry trend where municipally-operated institutions utilize nonprofit foundations to diversify revenue and secure private funding. The move positions the Phillips Park Zoo to better compete for grants alongside other regional attractions.
Residents and park visitors can participate in the fundraising efforts during the upcoming Oktoberfest celebration. The initiative aims to enhance the zoo experience for local families without increasing the direct tax burden on city residents.
The takeaway
Nonprofit foundations offer city-operated facilities a sustainable path to fund new projects through private grants and community events. Residents interested in supporting local wildlife programs can look for similar partnership opportunities in their community.
What happens next
The Phillips Park Zoo and the Phillips Park Foundation are scheduled to hold a fundraising event for the porcupine acquisition on October 10, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support civic institutions in our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Tribune.
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