News and Stories

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Zoo Access for All program is designed to encourage families and individuals of all backgrounds to visit our world-class organization to build lifelong and multi-generational memories. We are committed to inspiring every visitor with wildlife every day, and we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience and cultivate a positive connection to wildlife and wild places. 

For a total of twelve weeks over the course of this school year, Cincinnati Zoo educators have hosted Zoo Troop for All–an evening program for children ages 6-14 with developmental disabilities.  Each program night was filled with laughter, animal encounters, storytelling, dancing, games, Zoo hikes, and so much more!

This program would not be possible without the support from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Dr. Jen Smith, Director of the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program. Each week LEND volunteers serve as one-on-one aides to the children who attend, building beautiful relationships and experiences together. 

The kids and their families love this program and are so thankful for the time spent developing programming for their needs. Dr. Patty Manning-Courtney, Cincinnati Children’s Chief of Staff, actually came to volunteer last night and was very enthusiastic about the program and its impact for these families!

We look forward to seeing our Zoo Troop for All participants again this fall!